
William of Ockham (philosopher)
William of Ockham was a medieval English philosopher and theologian known for advocating simplicity in reasoning. He emphasized that when explaining phenomena, it's best to select the simplest theory that fits the facts, avoiding unnecessary assumptions—known as "Ockham's Razor." This approach encourages clear, economical explanations and has influenced science, logic, and philosophy. Ockham believed that entities or concepts should not be multiplied beyond necessity, promoting practical reasoning and critical thinking, especially in understanding complex issues. His ideas continue to guide thinkers in seeking straightforward, effective explanations across various disciplines.