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Introduction: Models and Simulations 6.

Studies in history and philosophy of science·2016
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Playing with molecules.

Adam Toon1

  • 1Department of Philosophy, University of Bielefeld, P.O. Box 100 131, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany. adam.toon@uni-bielefeld.de

Studies in History and Philosophy of Science
|February 16, 2012
PubMed
Summary

Scientific models function like props in make-believe games, similar to how children play with dolls. This study explores how users interact with molecular models, supporting this

Area of Science:

  • Philosophy of Science
  • Scientific Modeling
  • Epistemology

Background:

  • Recent philosophy of science explores scientific models through theories of fiction.
  • An established account views models as 'props' in make-believe games, drawing from Kendall Walton's theory of art.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To empirically assess the make-believe view of scientific models using molecular models.
  • To investigate the user's attitude and interaction with molecular models.

Main Methods:

  • Empirical study of molecular models.
  • Analysis of user interaction and attitudes towards molecular models.

Main Results:

  • User interaction with molecular models supports the make-believe view.

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  • Users imagine molecular models as actual molecules, akin to children with dolls.
  • Users imagine participating in viewing and manipulating molecules.

    • Conclusions:

    • The make-believe account gains empirical support from the use of molecular models.
    • Recognizing user 'participation' offers a new perspective on how models facilitate learning.
    • This framework helps explain the value scientists place on 3D physical models.