Explanation by induction?

Miguel Hoeltje

Benjamin Schnieder

Alex Steinberg

pp. 509-524

in: Synthese 190 (3), 2013.

Abstract

Philosophers of mathematics commonly distinguish between explanatory and non-explanatory proofs. An important subclass of mathematical proofs are proofs by induction. Are they explanatory? This paper addresses the question, based on general principles about explanation. First, a recent argument for a negative answer is discussed and rebutted. Second, a case is made for a qualified positive take on the issue.