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Epistemic Landscapes Reloaded: An Examination of Agent-Based Models in Social Epistemology
Epistemische Landschaften reloaded: eine Analyse agentenbasierter Modelle in der sozialen Erkenntnistheorie
[journal article]
Abstract Weisberg and Muldoon’s epistemic landscape model (ELM) has been one of the most significant contributions to the use of agent-based models in philosophy. The model provides an innovative approach to establishing the optimal distribution of cognitive labor in scientific communities, using an epistemi... view more
Weisberg and Muldoon’s epistemic landscape model (ELM) has been one of the most significant contributions to the use of agent-based models in philosophy. The model provides an innovative approach to establishing the optimal distribution of cognitive labor in scientific communities, using an epistemic landscape. In the paper, we provide a critical examination of ELM. First, we show that the computing mechanism for ELM is correct insofar as we are able to replicate the results using another programming language. Second, we show that small changes in the rules that determine the behavior of individual agents can lead to important changes in simulation results. Accordingly, we claim that ELM results are robust with respect to the computing mechanism, but not necessarily across parameter space. We conclude by reflecting on the possible lessons to be gained from ELM as a class of simulations or cluster of models.... view less
Keywords
cognition; simulation; model; computer; rational choice theory; epistemology; philosophy of science
Classification
Philosophy of Science, Theory of Science, Methodology, Ethics of the Social Sciences
Free Keywords
social epistemology; epistemic landscape; agent-based models; division of cognitive labor; epistemic landscape model; ELM
Document language
English
Publication Year
2018
Page/Pages
p. 48-71
Journal
Historical Social Research, 43 (2018) 1
Issue topic
Agent-Based Modeling in Social Science, History, and Philosophy
DOI
https://doi.org/10.12759/hsr.43.2018.1.48-71
ISSN
0172-6404
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed