Models of Explanation

Science is there to explain the world, to render it intelligible. But what does count for a scientific explanation of an observed phenomenon? How should one quantify explanatory power? What is the role of explanation in reasoning? Philosophers and scientists have given various answers: subsumption under general laws (the D-N model), unificatory value, identifying causally productive processes, statistical relevance, cognitive salience, and so on. The 11th MuST (Munich-Sydney-Tilburg/Turin) conference investigates the scope of different models of explanation, fosters a dialogue between them and evaluates their role in scientific reasoning in general. Philosophers and scientists alike are invited to contribute to this event and to submit a paper until 1 March 2018.