Models as Mediators

Authors:
  • MBMarcel Boumans
    Marcel Boumans
  • RHR. I. G. Hughes
    R. I. G. Hughes
  • UKUrsula Klein
    Ursula Klein
  • MSMauricio Suárez
    Mauricio Suárez
  • GRGeert Reuten
    Geert Reuten
  • NCNancy Cartwright
    Nancy Cartwright
  • ABAdrienne van Den Bogaard
    Adrienne van Den Bogaard
  • SHStephan Hartmann
    Stephan Hartmann
Editors:
  • MMMary S. Morgan
    Mary S. Morgan
  • MMMargaret Morrison
    Margaret Morrison
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Abstract
Models as Mediators discusses the ways in which models function in modern science, particularly in the fields of physics and economics. Models play a variety of roles in the sciences: they are used in the development, exploration and application of theories and in measurement methods. They also provide instruments for using scientific concepts and principles to intervene in the world. The editors provide a framework which covers the construction and function of scientific models, and explore the ways in which they enable us to learn about both theories and the world. The contributors to the volume offer their own individual theoretical perspectives to cover a wide range of examples of modelling, from physics, economics and chemistry. These papers provide ideal case-study material for understanding both the concepts and typical elements of modelling, using analytical approaches from the philosophy and history of science.