An agent-based conception of models and scientific representation
pp. 269-281
Résumé
I argue for an intentional conception of representation in science that requires bringing scientific agents and their intentions into the picture. So the formula is: Agents (1) intend; (2) to use model, M; (3) to represent a part of the world, W; (4) for some purpose, P. This conception legitimates using similarity as the basic relationship between models and the world. Moreover, since just about anything can be used to represent anything else, there can be no unified ontology of models. This whole approach is further supported by a brief exposition of some recent work in cognitive, or usage-based, linguistics. Finally, with all the above as background, I criticize the recently much discussed idea that claims involving scientific models are really fictions.
Détails de la publication
Publié dans:
Contessa Gabriele (2010) The ontology of scientific models. Synthese 172 (2).
Pages: 269-281
DOI: 10.1007/s11229-009-9506-z
Citation complète:
Giere Ronald N., 2010, An agent-based conception of models and scientific representation. Synthese 172 (2), The ontology of scientific models, 269-281. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11229-009-9506-z.