Modelling Nature: An Opinionated Introduction to Scientific Representation

This book provides a critical introduction to current theories of scientific modeling and offers an alternative proposal, the DEKI account of representation, which is comprehensive and accessible to novices and researchers alike. It covers material and non-material models, mathematics, and the relation between representation in science and art.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 241 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This monograph presents a comprehensive and critical introduction to current theories of how scientific models represent their target systems. Representation plays a crucial role in scientific inquiry as it enables scientists to study models to uncover features of reality. The authors offer a comprehensive map of the conceptual landscape surrounding scientific representation, highlighting the interconnected nature of the issue. They provide an encyclopedic overview of existing attempts to address these challenges, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, the book presents a novel and innovative proposal, the DEKI account of representation, which the authors have developed over the past few years. This account encompasses both material and non-material models, accommodates the use of mathematics in scientific modeling, and sheds light on the relationship between representation in science and art.

The issue of representation has garnered significant attention in recent years, particularly with the rapid growth of the literature. This has made it challenging for novice scholars to navigate the topic, as there is no single book-length introduction that provides a comprehensive guide. Similarly, researchers seeking a comprehensive review for critical evaluations may find this book invaluable.

The authors of this monograph have designed it to cater to the needs of both groups. They have structured the text in a clear and accessible manner, making it suitable for students and researchers alike. The book begins with an introductory chapter that provides a foundational understanding of the topic. This is followed by chapters that delve into the various theories of representation, including cognitive, computational, and formal approaches. Each chapter is accompanied by examples and exercises to reinforce the concepts discussed.

In addition to the theoretical discussions, the book also presents a detailed evaluation of the DEKI account of representation. The authors demonstrate how the account works in the case of material and non-material models, how it accommodates the use of mathematics in scientific modeling, and how it sheds light on the relation between representation in science and art. They also address some of the criticisms and limitations of existing approaches, providing insights into potential future directions for research in this field.

Throughout the monograph, the authors emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in scientific representation. They argue that different disciplines bring unique perspectives and methodologies to the study of representation, and that a holistic understanding of the issue requires collaboration across these boundaries. The book includes a comprehensive bibliography
references section that provides a valuable resource for further reading on the topic

In conclusion, this monograph offers a comprehensive and critical introduction to current theories of how scientific models represent their target systems. It provides a valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners interested in the field of scientific representation. The authors' innovative proposal, the DEKI account of representation, offers a novel and promising approach to understanding the complexities of scientific representation. By providing a comprehensive overview of existing theories, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, and presenting a novel and innovative proposal, this book contributes to the ongoing discussion on this important topic.

Weight: 403g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030451554
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020