The Explanatory Power of Models: Bridging the Gap Between Empirical and Theoretical Research in the Social Sciences - Couverture rigide

 
9781402008672: The Explanatory Power of Models: Bridging the Gap Between Empirical and Theoretical Research in the Social Sciences

Synopsis

Empirical research often lacks theory. This book progressively works out a method of constructing models which can bridge the gap between empirical and theoretical research in the social sciences. This might improve the explanatory power of models. The issue is quite novel, and it benefited from a thorough examination of statistical and mathematical models, conceptual models, diagrams and maps, machines, computer simulations, and artificial neural networks. These modelling practices have been approached through different disciplines.

The proposed method is partly inspired by reverse engineering. The standard covering law approach is abandoned, and classical induction restored to its rightful place. It helps to solve several difficulties which impact upon the social sciences today, for example how to extend an explanatory model to new phenomena, how to establish laws, and how to guide the choice of a conceptual structure.

The book can be used for advanced courses in research methods in the social sciences and in philosophy of science.

Les informations fournies dans la section « Synopsis » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.

Présentation de l'éditeur

This book progressively works out a method of constructing models which can bridge the gap between empirical and theoretical research in the social sciences. It aims to improve the explanatory power of models. The issue is quite novel, and has benefited from a thorough examination of statistical and mathematical models, conceptual models, diagrams and maps, machines, computer simulations, and artificial neural networks.

Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.

Autres éditions populaires du même titre

9789048161225: The Explanatory Power of Models: Bridging the Gap between Empirical and Theoretical Research in the Social Sciences

Edition présentée

ISBN 10 :  9048161223 ISBN 13 :  9789048161225
Editeur : Springer, 2010
Couverture souple