A model-based approach to problems in the philosophy of social science

Period 01-10-2006 to 30-09-2010
Type Predoctoral Fellowship
Promotor(s) Prof. Dr. Erik Weber and Dr. Jeroen Van Bouwel
Fellow Rogier De Langhe
Funding agency Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)

Recently a number of very interesting contributions were made on the role of models in the acquisition of scientific knowledge. This has consequences for the prevailing interpretation of traditional problems in the philosophy of social science, like realism, causality and explanation. Surprisingly, no elaborate model-based accounts have been put forth. Consequently, the goal of my research project is to engage in filling up this void by applying recent developments in the philosophy of science to these fundamental debates. I will focus on the social sciences, building on contemporary research strands that favour a conception of models applicable beyond the natural sciences. Economics being the social science most pervaded by models, the case studies I will be dealing with shall mostly be derived from this field of study.