Multiple Working Hypotheses: Equifinality and the Study of Landforms

The problem-solving traditions represented by the method of multiple working hypotheses and the concept of equifinality are explored. The similarity between the method of multiple working hypotheses and the account of science contained in the critical rationalist philosophy of Karl Popper is noted a...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Transactions - Institute of British Geographers (1965) 1983-01, Vol.8 (4), p.458-466
Main Authors: Haines-Young, R. H., Petch, J. R.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Arroyos
Causal explanations
Causal law
Critical rationalism
Drumlins
Geomorphology
Impact craters
Land development
Landforms
Volcanic landforms
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Summary:The problem-solving traditions represented by the method of multiple working hypotheses and the concept of equifinality are explored. The similarity between the method of multiple working hypotheses and the account of science contained in the critical rationalist philosophy of Karl Popper is noted and its association with the concept of equifinality examined. Several methodological problems associated with the use of the concept of equifinality are identified. These problems are considered in relation to the way in which explanations about the origin of landforms are developed, and the way in which landform terms are defined. The account is illustrated by reference to the literature on arroyos, terracettes and drumlins. It is suggested that the method of multiple working hypotheses offers a more secure foundation for explanation, and that the concept of equifinality is misleading.
ISSN:0020-2754
1475-5661
DOI:10.2307/621962