"More complicated explanations are accepted only when the evidence requires them." Which does the preceding statement best summarize?
A) Taxonomy
B) Systematics
C) Parsimony
D) Synapomorphy
E) Homoplasy

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement is referring to the principle of parsimony in phylogenetics, which states that the simplest explanation that is consistent with the data is usually the correct one. More complicated explanations should only be invoked when the data require them.

"More Complicated Explanations Are Accepted Only When the Evidence Requires