Which principle states that unless there is evidence to the contrary, one should account for phenomena with the simplest explanation available?

The principle that advocates for accounting for phenomena with the simplest explanation available is known as the principle of parsimony. This principle, often summarized by the phrase "Occam's razor," suggests that when faced with competing hypotheses, the one that makes the fewest assumptions should be selected.

This approach is valuable in various fields, including science and philosophy, as it encourages a preference for simplicity over complexity in explanation. By adhering to this principle, one can avoid the pitfalls of unnecessary speculation and ensure a more straightforward understanding of the situation at hand.

In contrast, concepts such as the principle of patriotism or anecdotal evidence do not align with this notion of simplicity and preference for less complex explanations. The principle of obvious answers does not hold a recognized status in scientific inquiry and lacks the rigor associated with the principle of parsimony. That makes the principle of parsimony the most fitting choice, as it directs inquiry toward the simplest and most parsimonious explanation available.