British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 52 (4):683-700 (2001)
Authors |
|
Abstract |
In his recent book, Explaining Chaos, Peter Smith presents a new problem in the foundations of chaos theory. Specifically, he argues that the standard ways of justifying idealizations in mathematical models fail when it comes to the infinite intricacy found in strange attractors. I argue that Smith's analysis undermines much of the explanatory power of chaos theory. A better approach is developed by drawing analogies from the models found in continuum mechanics.
|
Keywords | Chaos Theory |
Categories | (categorize this paper) |
DOI | 10.1093/bjps/52.4.683 |
Options |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Download options
References found in this work BETA
An Idiot’s Fugitive Essays on Science: Methods, Criticism, Training, Circumstances.C. Truesdell - 1984 - Springer.
Citations of this work BETA
Dynamical Systems Theory and Explanatory Indispensability.Juha Saatsi - 2017 - Philosophy of Science 84 (5):892-904.
Terra Incognita: Explanation and Reduction in Earth Science.Maarten G. Kleinhans, Chris J. J. Buskes & Henk W. de Regt - 2005 - International Studies in the Philosophy of Science 19 (3):289 – 317.
Similar books and articles
A Method for Introducing the Concepts of Chaos Theory to Medical Students.Fred W. Markham - 1998 - Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics 19 (1):1-4.
A Philosophical Evaluation of the Chaos Theory "Revolution".Stephen H. Kellert - 1992 - PSA: Proceedings of the Biennial Meeting of the Philosophy of Science Association 1992:33 - 49.
Life, Chaos, and Transdisciplinarity: A Personal Journey.Bob Hodge - 2007 - World Futures 63 (3 & 4):209 – 222.
Analytics
Added to PP index
2009-01-28
Total views
285 ( #38,292 of 2,520,399 )
Recent downloads (6 months)
1 ( #405,718 of 2,520,399 )
2009-01-28
Total views
285 ( #38,292 of 2,520,399 )
Recent downloads (6 months)
1 ( #405,718 of 2,520,399 )
How can I increase my downloads?
Downloads