What is Occam's Razor?

Answer 1

Occam's razor states that the explanation of any phenomenon should make as few assumptions as possible, eliminating those that make no difference in the observable predictions of the explanatory hypothesis or theory

Answer 2

"Pluralitas non est ponenda sine neccesitate" or "plurality should not be posited without necessity." The words are those of the medieval English philosopher and Franciscan monk William of Ockham (ca. 1285-1349). Like many Franciscans, William was a minimalist in this life, idealizing a life of poverty, and like St. Francis himself, battling with the Pope over the issue. William was excommunicated by Pope John XXII. He responded by writing a treatise demonstrating that Pope John was a heretic.

What is known as Occam's razor was a common principle in medieval philosophy and was not originated by William, but because of his frequent usage of the principle, his name has become indelibly attached to it. It is unlikely that William would appreciate what some of us have done in his name. For example, atheists often apply Occam's razor in arguing against the existence of God on the grounds that God is an unnecessary hypothesis. We can explain everything without assuming the extra metaphysical baggage of a Divine Being.

Answer 3

The above answers stating that the simplest solution is best are true, but it also refers to the elimination of superfluous assumptions which have no effect on whatever we are using Occam's razor on, in other words, paring away the rubbish.

Answer 4

The idea that the simplest answer/solution to a question/problem is the correct one.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occam%27s_razor

Answer 5

Nothing new to add, except that it is often used in a naturalistic sense, often going beyond just "is there a supernatural", to "the answer already lies in our field of knowledge". So it is in effect a closed philosophical approach.

Having said that, it's always a fun thing to whip out when all you're really trying to say to someone is don't overcomplicate your thought processes, the simplest answer is probably the correct one.

Answer 6

use the following mnemonic to remember Occam's razor:
KISS=Kiss It Simple Stupid!..or Keep It Simple Sir..lol

Answer 7

The theory, or heuristic, that when all things are equal, the simplest solution or explanation is often the correct one.

Answer 8

All things being equal the simplest answer is the right one.

Answer 9

The simplest answer/solution is always correct

Answer 10

all things being equal, the simplest explanation is usually the correct explanation.