What was infinite regress theory?

An infinite regress is an infinite series of entities governed by a recursive principle that determines how each entity in the series depends on or is produced by its predecessor. In the epistemic regress, for example, a belief is justified because it is based on another belief that is justified.

Is infinite regress a fallacy?

It’s a fallacy because it is begging the question that is to say that it is a circular argument. Whether referring to the origins of the universe or any other regressive context, the answer simply moves the question back into infinite regress rather than answering it.

What is infinite regress example?

Examples: “The world is supported by four elephants standing on the back of a giant turtle, which is standing on the back of another giant turtle, which is standing on the back of another giant turtle…” Eggs exist because they are laid by chickens; and, of course, chickens are hatched from eggs.”

Why is infinite regress a fallacy?

The Logical Fallacy of Infinite Regress / Homunculus Argument occurs when an argument forms an endless loop of dependent premises, never reaching a premise that can stand as true on its own. If the truth of a premise P1 is proven by premise P2, and the truth of premise P2 is proven by premise P3, and this pattern continues without being resolved, this is infinite regress.

What is an infinite regress in philosophy?

An infinite regress arises when we ask what are the justifications for the reasons themselves. If the reasons count as knowledge, they must themselves be justified with reasons for the reasons, and so on, ad infinitum . The problem of the infinite regress was a critical argument of the Skeptics in ancient philosophy.

Is infinite regression possible?

Infinite regress is only not possible by being bounded in some of the limits of applicability we comprehend for ourselves and our reality. Some people can’t imagine how it work as they have no frame of reference to comprehend.