Baraghith, Karim (2026) On Networks, Trees and Traits: Evaluating Explanatory Power of Network Models in Cultural Evolutionary Research. [Preprint]
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Abstract
In this paper, I assess the explanatory power of four graph‑ and net-work‑based models recently used in the domain of Cultural Evolution-ary Theory (CET): (a) Phylogenetic Trees, (b) Death–Birth Graphs, (c) Interaction Graphs, and (d) Trait Networks. First, I show that Interaction Graphs, Trait Networks and (empirically‑calibrated) Death–Birth Graphs can function as genuine mechanistic explanations, while Phylogenies remain largely at the level of correlational evidence. I then broaden the analysis to two non‑mechanistic accounts: Kitcher’s unificatory per-spective and Kostić’s counterfactual theory of topological explanation. Interaction graphs excel mechanistically and topologically, death–birth graphs yield strong topological explanations, phylogenetic trees lead in unification, and trait networks offer mixed, moderate strengths. Because no single model or mode dominates, explanatory strength in CET is to a large extent question relative. I argue for a pluralistic approach in CET: rather than competing, these three explanatory axes (“modes of expla-nation”) complement one another and suggest a roadmap for future hy-brid network models that could combine these complementary virtues and invite closer collaboration between CET modellers and philosophers of science.
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| Item Type: | Preprint | ||||||
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| Keywords: | cultural evolution, network, explanation, topological, causal, unification | ||||||
| Subjects: | Specific Sciences > Cultural Evolution General Issues > Philosophers of Science |
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| Depositing User: | Dr. Karim Baraghith | ||||||
| Date Deposited: | 09 Jan 2026 16:08 | ||||||
| Last Modified: | 09 Jan 2026 16:08 | ||||||
| Item ID: | 27810 | ||||||
| Subjects: | Specific Sciences > Cultural Evolution General Issues > Philosophers of Science |
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| Date: | 2026 | ||||||
| URI: | https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/27810 |
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