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If no capacities then no credible worlds. But can models reveal capacities?

Cartwright, Nancy (2009) If no capacities then no credible worlds. But can models reveal capacities? Erkenntnis, 70 (1). pp. 45-58. ISSN 0165-0106

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Identification Number: 10.1007/s10670-008-9136-8

Abstract

This paper argues that even when simple analogue models picture parallel worlds, they generally still serve as isolating tools. But there are serious obstacles that often stop them isolating in just the right way. These are obstacles that face any model that functions as a thought-experiment but they are especially pressing for economic models because of the paucity of economic principles. Because of the paucity of basic principles, economic models are rich in structural assumptions. Without these no interesting conclusions can be drawn. This, however, makes trouble when it comes to exporting conclusions from the model to the world. One uncontroversial constraint on induction from special cases is to beware of extending conclusions to situations that we know are different in relevant respects. In the case of economic models it is clear by inspection that the unrealistic structural assumptions of the model are intensely relevant to the conclusion. Any inductive leap to a real situation seems a bad bet.

Item Type: Article
Official URL: http://www.springer.com/philosophy/journal/10670
Additional Information: © 2009 Springer
Divisions: Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method
CPNSS
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General)
Date Deposited: 01 Feb 2011 12:16
Last Modified: 04 Mar 2024 06:48
URI: http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/31951

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