Deterministic and Indeterministic Modelling: Underdetermination and Indirect Evidence

Charlotte Werndl (London School of Economics)

Tues 25 Feb, 5.15pm
Room 243, second floor, Senate House, WC1
Charlotte Wendl (LSE)
Deterministic and Indeterministic Modelling: Underdetermination and Indirect Evidence

Abstract: This talk starts by introducing mathematical results which show that there is observational equivalence between deterministic and indeterministic models (even for standard systems modelled by Newtonian mechanics). That is, the relevant deterministic and indeterministic models give the same predictions. Hence there is a choice between a deterministic and indeterministic models. Therefore, the question arises: which model, if any, is preferable relative to evidence? I will criticise the extant answers to this question; in particular, the answers by Winnie (1998) and Suppes (1993). Finally, a new answer will be presented: suppose you can choose between a deterministic model derived from Newtonian mechanics and an indeterministic model which does not follow from any theory. By appealing to indirect evidence, I argue that the deterministic model is preferable and that there is no underdetermination.

Full Series 2013/14: