Shech, Elay and Gelfert, Axel (2016) The Exploratory Role of Idealizations and Limiting Cases in Models. [Preprint]

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Abstract

In this article we argue that idealizations and limiting cases in models play an exploratory role in science. Four senses of exploration are presented: exploration of the structure and representational capacities of theory; proof-of-principle demonstrations; potential explanations; and exploring the suitability of target systems. We illustrate our claims through three case studies, including the Aharonov-Bohm effect, the emergence of anyons and fractional quantum statistics, and the Hubbard model of the Mott phase transitions. We end by reflecting on how our case studies and claims compare to accounts of idealization in the philosophy of science literature such as Michael Weisberg’s three-fold taxonomy.

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Item Type:	Preprint
Creators:	Creators Email ORCID Shech, Elay eshech@gmail.com Gelfert, Axel
Keywords:	Idealization; Models; Exploration
Subjects:	General Issues > Explanation General Issues > Models and Idealization Specific Sciences > Physics
Depositing User:	Dr. Elay Shech
Date Deposited:	09 Nov 2018 19:20
Last Modified:	09 Nov 2018 19:20
Item ID:	15284
Subjects:	General Issues > Explanation General Issues > Models and Idealization Specific Sciences > Physics
Date:	July 2016
URI:	https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/15284

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• The Exploratory Role of Idealizations and Limiting Cases in Models. (deposited 20 Aug 2017 16:31)
  • The Exploratory Role of Idealizations and Limiting Cases in Models. (deposited 09 Nov 2018 19:20) [Currently Displayed]

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