Principle of sufficient reason

Every contingent fact has a sufficient reason

The principle of sufficient reason (PSR) posits that every contingent fact must have a sufficient reason. This principle is often interpreted as implying that everything has a cause, especially within deterministic systems. However, necessary truths are not considered to require a cause due to their inherent necessity.

Example

If a tree falls in a forest, the PSR suggests there must be a sufficient reason for its falling, such as wind or disease.

Remember this

Understanding PSR helps us explore the underlying reasons behind events and phenomena, enhancing our comprehension of causality and necessity.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

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