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Generality and Causal Interdependence in Ecology

Elliott-Graves, Alkistis (2018) Generality and Causal Interdependence in Ecology. [Preprint]

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Abstract

A hallmark of ecological research is dealing with complexity in the systems under investigation. One strategy is to diminish this complexity by constructing models and theories that are general. Alternatively, ecologists can constrain the scope of their generalisations to particular phenomena or types of systems. However, research employing the second strategy is often met with scathing criticism. I offer a theoretical argument in support of moderate generalisations in ecological research, based on the notions of interdependence and causal heterogeneity and their effect on the tradeoff between generality and realism


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Elliott-Graves, Alkistisalkistis.elliott-graves@helsinki.fi0000-0002-5211-2229
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Biology
Specific Sciences > Biology > Ecology/Conservation
General Issues > Causation
Depositing User: Dr. Alkistis Elliott-Graves
Date Deposited: 17 May 2018 18:58
Last Modified: 17 May 2018 18:58
Item ID: 14676
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Biology
Specific Sciences > Biology > Ecology/Conservation
General Issues > Causation
Date: 2018
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/14676

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