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The Volterra Principle Generalized

Räz, Tim (2016) The Volterra Principle Generalized. [Preprint]

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Abstract

Michael Weisberg and Kenneth Reisman argue that the so-called Volterra Principle can be derived from a series of predator-prey models, and that, therefore, the Volterra Principle is a prime example for the practice of robustness analysis. In the present paper, I give new results regarding the Volterra Principle, extending Weisberg’s and Reisman’s work, and I discuss the consequences of these new results for robustness analysis. I argue that we do not end up with multiple, independent models, but rather with one general model. I identify the kind of situation in which this generalization approach may occur, I analyze the generalized Volterra Principle from an explanatory perspective, and I propose that cases in which the generalization approach may not apply are in fact cases of mathematical coincidences.


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Räz, Timtim.raez@gmail.com
Keywords: Lotka-Volterra, predator-prey, mathematical modeling, mathematical explanation, mathematical coincidence, Michael Weisberg, Kenneth Reisman
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Biology > Ecology/Conservation
General Issues > Explanation
General Issues > History of Science Case Studies
Specific Sciences > Mathematics
General Issues > Models and Idealization
Depositing User: Tim Räz
Date Deposited: 17 Sep 2016 12:50
Last Modified: 17 Sep 2016 12:50
Item ID: 12442
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Biology > Ecology/Conservation
General Issues > Explanation
General Issues > History of Science Case Studies
Specific Sciences > Mathematics
General Issues > Models and Idealization
Date: 2016
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/12442

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