Fostering Curiosity/A Description is Not an Explanation
In the quest to understand the world around us, humans have long relied on both descriptions and explanations.[1] While these two concepts often intertwine, they serve fundamentally different purposes. A description is a detailed account of what something is, focusing on the "what" and "how" aspects of a subject. In contrast, an explanation delves into the "why," seeking to unravel the underlying causes, mechanisms, or reasons behind a phenomenon. This distinction is crucial in various fields, from science to philosophy, and understanding it can deepen our comprehension of complex ideas.
The Nature of Descriptions
A description is an objective portrayal of something as it appears. It is about cataloging attributes, detailing characteristics, and providing a clear picture of the subject in question. For instance, a description of a rainbow might include its appearance as a multicolored arc in the sky, visible after rain showers, typically with colors ranging from red on the outer edge to violet on the inner edge. This description tells us what a rainbow looks like and when it occurs, offering a clear visual image of the phenomenon.
Similarly, in literature, a character description might detail a person's physical appearance, mannerisms, and possibly their outward behavior. For example, describing Sherlock Holmes might involve noting his sharp features, his keen eyes, his pipe, and his iconic deerstalker hat. These details give us a vivid image of Holmes, allowing us to recognize him in any depiction. However, descriptions, while often vivid and informative, stop short of explaining why things are the way they are.
The Role of Explanations
Explanations go beyond the surface to explore the underlying principles or reasons behind a description. Using the earlier example of a rainbow, an explanation would involve the science behind its formation. It would discuss how sunlight is refracted, reflected, and dispersed through water droplets in the atmosphere, leading to the spectrum of light we perceive as a rainbow. This explanation answers the "why" behind the appearance of the rainbow, providing insight into the natural processes at work.
In the case of Sherlock Holmes, an explanation would delve into why he behaves the way he does, exploring his motivations, his background, and his psychological makeup. It might examine how his keen powers of observation and deduction were developed, perhaps through his education, his experiences, or his personality traits. An explanation gives us a deeper understanding of Holmes as a character, beyond just his outward appearance.
The Importance of Distinguishing Between the Two
Understanding the difference between a description and an explanation is vital, particularly in fields that require critical thinking and problem-solving. In science, for instance, merely describing a phenomenon is insufficient for advancing knowledge. Scientists must also provide explanations that reveal the mechanisms behind the phenomena, which in turn can lead to predictions, further experimentation, and technological advancement.
Consider the description of a disease outbreak. Public health officials might describe the symptoms, the affected population, and the geographical spread. While this information is crucial, it does not explain why the outbreak occurred. An explanation would require an investigation into the pathogen involved, its mode of transmission, and the factors contributing to its spread. Only with this explanation can effective countermeasures be developed.
In philosophy, the distinction between description and explanation is equally significant. A philosopher might describe the concept of justice, detailing various theories and definitions. However, explaining why justice is valued, or why certain actions are considered just or unjust, involves exploring ethical theories, human nature, and social dynamics. Without such explanations, our understanding of justice remains superficial.
Examples in Everyday Life
In everyday life, the difference between description and explanation often becomes apparent in communication. For example, if someone describes a car as "fast and red," they provide a clear image of the car's appearance and one of its attributes. However, if asked to explain why the car is fast, they might discuss the engine's horsepower, the car's aerodynamic design, or its lightweight materials. The description tells us what the car is like, while the explanation tells us why it performs the way it does.
Another example can be found in education. A teacher might describe a mathematical formula, explaining how it is written and what each symbol represents. However, to truly understand the formula, a student needs an explanation of how it is derived, why it works, and how it can be applied to solve problems. This explanation transforms the formula from a mere set of symbols into a powerful tool for understanding the world.
Conclusion
While descriptions and explanations are both essential tools for understanding, they serve distinct roles. A description provides a detailed account of what something is, while an explanation uncovers the reasons behind it. Recognizing this distinction is crucial in fields like science, philosophy, and education, where true understanding comes not just from knowing what something is, but from understanding why it is that way. By combining clear descriptions with insightful explanations, we can achieve a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the world around us.