Year: 2006
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: A computer simulation model, can produce some interesting and surprising results which one would not expect from initial analysis of the algorithm and data. We question however, whether the description of such a computer simulation modelling procedure (data + algorithm + results) can constitute an explanation as to why the algorithm produces such an effect. Specifically, in the field of theoretical biology, can such a procedure constitute real scientific explanation of biological phenomena? We compare computer simulation modelling to explicit mathematical treatment concluding that there are fundamental differences between the two. Since computer simulations can model systems that mathematical models can not, we look at ways of improving explanatory power of computer simulations through empirical style study and mechanistic decomposition.
Authors: John Bryden, Jason Noble
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: University of Leeds
OpenAlex ID: W1544024060