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Between physics and metaphysics: structure as a boundary concept.
1National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), National University of La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina, rtau@psico.unlp.edu.ar.
Integrative Psychological & Behavioral Science
|July 30, 2014
Summary
Scientific theories define structure as boundaries, shaping scientific knowledge and ontological assumptions. This concept, rooted in mathematical and linguistic traditions, is explored across diverse fields.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- Epistemology
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Background:
- The concept of structure is widely used across scientific disciplines, but definitions vary significantly.
- Previous attempts, like mid-20th century structuralism, sought a universal transdisciplinary language for structure.
- Contemporary understanding of structure has dual origins in mathematics and linguistics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify a constant aspect of structure across diverse scientific perspectives.
- To argue that structure functions as a boundary defining scientific knowledge and its ontological assumptions.
- To explore the relationship between structure, knowledge, and reality.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the concept of structure as a boundary in scientific theories.
- Revision of theoretical perspectives linking structure, knowledge, and reality.
- Examination of mathematical and linguistic origins of structural concepts.
Main Results:
- Structure is consistently located at the boundaries of scientific theories.
- The definition of structure inherently delineates the frontiers of scientific knowledge.
- Structural concepts imply specific ontological assumptions about reality.
Conclusions:
- Structure serves as a boundary marker for scientific knowledge.
- The notion of structure is intrinsically linked to ontological commitments.
- Understanding structure's boundary function offers insights into scientific epistemology across disciplines.
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