Linkage: Studies in Applied Philosophy of Science
Online ISSN : 2435-9084
Volume 4
Displaying 1-3 of 3 articles from this issue
  • -A new perspective of scientific model theories-
    Masahiro Matsuo
    2024 Volume 4 Pages 1-9
    Published: 2024
    Released on J-STAGE: March 31, 2025
    RESEARCH REPORT / TECHNICAL REPORT FREE ACCESS
    In the philosophy of science, scale models are generally regarded as one type of model. However, when scrutinizing model candidates based on the fundamental premise of ‘criteria for comparison between a model and the target,’ scale models are excluded, leaving mathematical models and cognitive structures as candidates. This point has been almost overlooked but will provide a new perspective to the construction of a theory of scientific models.
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  • Sota Sato
    2024 Volume 4 Pages 10-14
    Published: 2024
    Released on J-STAGE: March 31, 2025
    RESEARCH REPORT / TECHNICAL REPORT FREE ACCESS
    The concept of topological explanation has been discussed in contrast to mechanistic explanation since Philippe Huneman (2010) argued that it is becoming mainstream in biological research as a replacement for mechanistic explanation. Philosophers who defend topological explanation claim that it provides explanations in a mode different from mechanistic explanation. However, attempts to explain real-world phenomena by relying on the abstract concept of mathematical facts face ontological challenges, and topological explanation is no exception. This study provides an overview of the characteristics of topological explanation and examines the challenges it must overcome. Furthermore, as a method to address these challenges, this study explores the possibility of reconstructing topological explanation based on Kuorikoski's (2022) concept of formal understanding.
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  • A case study of multiple idealizations in the partial melting model
    Nayuta MORIKITA
    2024 Volume 4 Pages 15-21
    Published: 2024
    Released on J-STAGE: April 02, 2025
    RESEARCH REPORT / TECHNICAL REPORT FREE ACCESS
    Idealized models are commonly used in Earth science. This study examines the function of idealization in modeling by focusing on partial melting models, one of the most successful models in Earth science. Multiple forms of partial melting models exist, and they are used complementarily depending on the research context and target materials. Furthermore, these models function as benchmarks, between which the real target cases are situated. As a result, multiple models constitute the end-members that represent natural phenomena. The widespread use of multiple models in Earth science highlights the significance of multi-model approaches in scientific modeling. Additionally, it demonstrates that Earth science can provide rich case studies for the philosophy of science.
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