Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The essay by Shiffrin, Stigler, and Keil (2026) opens a valuable discussion on the limitations of understanding in scientific practice and theory development. Here, we argue that the essay sometimes lacks precision, which in itself may nurture illusions of understanding. The goal of this commentary is therefore to more precisely discuss three themes from the essay: Regression to the mean, the critique of formal modeling, and the nature of researchers' limitations. We end with a brief outlook on how illusions of understanding could be mitigated.
Source: Computational Brain & Behavior
Authors: Julia M. Haaf, Nicole Cruz, Anne Giacobello
Institution: University of Potsdam
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,290
Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
OpenAlex ID: W7155034714