Ducheyne, Steffen (2006) Lessons From Galileo: The Pragmatic Model of Shared Characteristics of Scientific Representation. [Preprint]
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Abstract
In this paper I will defend a new account of scientific representation. I will begin by looking at the benefits and drawbacks of two recent accounts on scientific representation: Hughes’ DDI account and Suárez’ inferential account. Next I use some of Galileo’s models in the Discorsi as a heuristic tool for a better account of scientific representation. Next I will present my model. The main idea of my account, which I refer to as the pragmatic model of shared characteristics (PMSC), is that a model represents, if and only if, (1) a person accepts that there is a set of shared characteristics between the model and its target; (2) this set has the inferential power to generate results which can be tested empirically; (3) and the corresponding test(s) of these results is/are in agreement with our data and the specific cognitive goals we have in mind.
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| Item Type: | Preprint |
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| Keywords: | representation, similarity, models, Suarez' inferential account of scientific explanation, Hughes' DDI account of scientific representation, Galileo, Discorsi |
| Subjects: | Specific Sciences > Physics > Classical Physics General Issues > Structure of Theories General Issues > Models and Idealization General Issues > History of Philosophy of Science General Issues > Laws of Nature General Issues > History of Science Case Studies |
| Depositing User: | Steffen Ducheyne |
| Date Deposited: | 02 Jan 2006 |
| Last Modified: | 07 Oct 2010 11:13 |
| Item ID: | 2579 |
| URI: | http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/2579 |
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