What is infinite regress Aristotle?

An infinite regress is a series of appropriately related elements with a first member but no last member, where each element leads to or generates the next in some sense. An infinite regress argument is an argument that makes appeal to an infinite regress.

What is epistemic regress?

In epistemology, the regress argument is the argument that any proposition requires a justification. However, any justification itself requires support. This means that any proposition whatsoever can be endlessly (infinitely) questioned, resulting in infinite regress.

What is a vicious infinite regress?

A vicious infinite regress occurs when an explanation is offered to solve some problem (e.g. in philosophy) and the very same problem recurs within the proposed explanation (though, at first, this defect might not be obvious). Thus, if an explanation leads to a vicious infinite regress, it is a failed explanation.

Did Aristotle believe in infinite regress?

Aristotle. Aristotle argued that knowing does not necessitate an infinite regress because some knowledge does not depend on demonstration: Some hold that owing to the necessity of knowing the primary premises, there is no scientific knowledge. Neither doctrine is either true or a necessary deduction from the premises.

What is the definition of an infinite regress argument?

An infinite regress argument is an argument that makes appeal to an infinite regress. Usually such arguments take the form of objections to a theory, with the fact that the theory implies an infinite regress being taken to be objectionable.

When is an infinite regress a locally vicious regress?

For example, an otherwise virtuous regress is locally vicious for a theory that posits a finite domain. In some cases, an infinite regress is not itself the source of the problem but merely indicates a different underlying problem.

Is the infinite regress problem a logical impossibility?

The PSR claims the whole universe requires a sufficient explanation, whether it is infinite or finite. The KCA also avoids the problem of infinite regress. Philosophers can continue to debate about whether an infinite series is a logical impossibility, but the KCA declares it to be an actual impossibility.

Do you think the PSR considers infinite regress?

The PSR does not consider infinite regression. Whether the universe is infinitely old or has a definite beginning makes no difference to this argument. The PSR claims the whole universe requires a sufficient explanation, whether it is infinite or finite.