David Deutsch argues that explanation, not prediction, is the primary goal of science. How widely accepted is this view?

I'm currently reading The Fabric of Reality by David Deutsch and have just finished the first chapter.

One of Deutsch's central claims is that the purpose of science is not merely to make successful predictions, but to provide explanations that improve our understanding of reality. He criticizes instrumentalist and positivist views that treat theories primarily as predictive tools.

I find this position interesting because science is often presented to the public as a process of prediction and experimentation, whereas Deutsch places explanation at the center. A few questions like the ones below came in my mind.

How widely accepted is this view among contemporary philosophers of science?

What are some major arguments for and against prioritizing explanation over prediction?

I'd appreciate any perspectives, criticisms, or recommended reading.