PhilSci Archive

On the Explanatory Role of Mathematics in Empirical Science

Batterman, Robert (2008) On the Explanatory Role of Mathematics in Empirical Science. [Preprint]

[img]
Preview
PDF
mapping-expl.pdf

Download (285kB)

Abstract

This paper examines contemporary attempts to explicate the explanatory role of mathematics in the physical sciences. Most such approaches involve developing so-called mapping accounts of the relationships between the physical world and mathematical structures. The paper argues that the use of idealizations in physical theorizing poses serious difficulties for such mapping accounts. A new approach to the applicability of mathematics is proposed.


Export/Citation: EndNote | BibTeX | Dublin Core | ASCII/Text Citation (Chicago) | HTML Citation | OpenURL
Social Networking:
Share |

Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
CreatorsEmailORCID
Batterman, Robert
Keywords: Mathematics, explanation, physics, applicability, Limits, Idealizations
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Mathematics > Explanation
Specific Sciences > Mathematics
General Issues > Models and Idealization
Specific Sciences > Physics
Depositing User: rbatterm rbatterm rbatterm
Date Deposited: 18 Jul 2008
Last Modified: 07 May 2017 16:31
Item ID: 4115
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Mathematics > Explanation
Specific Sciences > Mathematics
General Issues > Models and Idealization
Specific Sciences > Physics
Date: July 2008
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/4115

Monthly Views for the past 3 years

Monthly Downloads for the past 3 years

Plum Analytics

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item