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Articles 1 - 4 of 4
Full-Text Articles in Philosophy of Science
The Relationship Between Mathematical Expression And Biological Insight: Some Issues In Community Ecology Modeling, Exemplified By The Logistic Equation, Peter J. Taylor
The Relationship Between Mathematical Expression And Biological Insight: Some Issues In Community Ecology Modeling, Exemplified By The Logistic Equation, Peter J. Taylor
Working Papers on Science in a Changing World
The relationship between mathematical expression and biological insight is a central problem for modelers in community ecology. In this paper I distinguish three interpretations of this relationship: models as redescriptions as observations; models as capturing fundamental or generative biological relations; and models as an aid in exploring how to formulate the inquiries we put to nature. I aim to show that we can reduce ambiguities and confusion and ecological theory if we hold the different interpretations clearly in mind. I conclude by advancing an overall strategy of model building—de/composition—in which each of the interpretations plays a role. The logistic equation, …
Apparent Interactions In Community Models: A Challenge For Theoretical Ecology, Peter J. Taylor
Apparent Interactions In Community Models: A Challenge For Theoretical Ecology, Peter J. Taylor
Working Papers on Science in a Changing World
The primary aim of this working paper is to challenge theoretical ecologists to clarify the intended status of any simple model that they use. If we restrict our attention to a subcommunity and treat it as if it were the full community, we need to invoke apparent interactions that incorporate the effects of unspecified or hidden variables as well as direct interactions. This position resembles that of previous discussions of apparent competition (Holt 1977), indirect effects (Lawlor 1979), and ecological abstraction (Schaffer 1981), but my definition of apparent interactions differs from those stated or implied by these authors. I advance …
What Is The Question Concerning The Rationality Of Science?, Harvey Siegel
What Is The Question Concerning The Rationality Of Science?, Harvey Siegel
Philosophy Articles and Papers
The traditional views of science as the possessor of a special method, and as the epitome or apex of rationality, have come under severe challenges for a variety of historical, psychological, sociological, political, and philosophical reasons. As a result, many philosophers are either denying science its claim to rationality, or else casting about for a new account of its rationality. In this paper a defense of the traditional view is offered. It is argued that contemporary philosophical discussion regarding the rationality of science is plagued by a failure to distinguish among three different questions, all taken to be "the" question …
Evolution At A Crossroads: The New Biology And The New Philosophy Of Science, David Depew, Bruce Weber
Evolution At A Crossroads: The New Biology And The New Philosophy Of Science, David Depew, Bruce Weber
David J Depew
No abstract provided.