Scientific Models and Decision Making

This Element introduces the philosophical literature on models, focusing on normative considerations relevant to models for decisionmaking.

Eric Winsberg (Author), Stephanie Harvard (Author)

9781009468213, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 8 February 2024

82 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 0.6 cm, 0.255 kg

This Element introduces the philosophical literature on models, with an emphasis on normative considerations relevant to models for decision-making. Chapter 1 gives an overview of core questions in the philosophy of modeling. Chapter 2 examines the concept of model adequacy for purpose, using three examples of models from the atmospheric sciences to describe how this sort of adequacy is determined in practice. Chapter 3 explores the significance of using models that are not adequate for purpose, including the purpose of informing public decisions. Chapter 4 provides a basic framework for values in modelling, using a case study to highlight the ethical challenges in building models for decision making. It concludes by establishing the need for strategies to manage value judgments in modelling, including the potential for public participation in the process.

1. Introduction
2. Adequacy for purpose
3. Inadequacy for purpose
4. Models and values
References.

Subject Areas: Philosophy [HP]