Complexity and Context-Dependency
Abstract
It
is argued that given the “anti-anthropomorphic” principle—that the
universe is not structured for our benefit—modelling
trade-offs will necessarily mean that many of our models
will be context-specific. It is argued that context-specificity is
not the same as relativism. The “context heuristic”—that of
dividing processing into rich, fuzzy context-recognition and crisp,
conscious reasoning and learning—is outlined. The
consequences of accepting the impact of this human heuristic in the
light
of the necessity of accepting context-specificity in our
modelling of complex systems is examined. In particular the development
of “islands” or related model clusters rather than
over-arching laws and theories. It is suggested that by accepting and
dealing
with context (rather than ignoring it) we can push the
boundaries of science a little further.
Keywords Complexity – Context – Generality – Models – Pragmatics – Anthropomorphism
Edmonds, B. (2013) Complexity and Context-Dependency. Foundations of Science, 18(4):745-755. DOI: 10.1007/s10699-012-9303-x (previous version at http://cfpm.org/cpmrep209.html)
