What is a Computer Simulation? A Review of a Passionate Debate

Journal for General Philosophy of Science / Zeitschrift für Allgemeine Wissenschaftstheorie 48 (2):293-309 (2017)
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Abstract

Where should computer simulations be located on the ‘usual methodological map’ which distinguishes experiment from theory? Specifically, do simulations ultimately qualify as experiments or as thought experiments? Ever since Galison raised that question, a passionate debate has developed, pushing many issues to the forefront of discussions concerning the epistemology and methodology of computer simulation. This review article illuminates the positions in that debate, evaluates the discourse and gives an outlook on questions that have not yet been addressed.

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Citations of this work

Thought Experiments.Yiftach J. H. Fehige & James R. Brown - 2010 - Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy 25 (1):135-142.
How to infer explanations from computer simulations.Florian J. Boge - 2020 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part A 82:25-33.

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References found in this work

The extended mind.Andy Clark & David J. Chalmers - 1998 - Analysis 58 (1):7-19.
Science in the age of computer simulation.Eric Winsberg - 2010 - Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Thought experiments.Roy A. Sorensen - 1992 - New York: Oxford University Press.

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