The Exploratory Role of Idealizations and Limiting Cases in Models

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

2019

Advisor

Editor

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Wydawnictwo Naukowe UAM

Title alternative

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 transition. 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.

Description

Sponsor

Keywords

exploration, idealization, models

Citation

Studia Metodologiczne, nr 39, 2019, s. 195–232.

Seria

ISBN

ISSN

0039424X

DOI

Title Alternative

Rights Creative Commons

Creative Commons License

Uniwersytet im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu
Biblioteka Uniwersytetu im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu
Ministerstwo Nauki i Szkolnictwa Wyższego