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Lessons From Galileo: The Pragmatic Model of Shared Characteristics of Scientific Representation

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
Creators:
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Ducheyne, Steffen
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 15:13
Item ID: 2579
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
Date: July 2006
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/2579

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