Attempts to understand various aspects of the empirical world often rely on modelling processes that involve a reconstruction of systems under investigation. Typically the reconstruction uses mathematical frameworks like gauge theory and renormalization group methods, but more recently simulations also have become an indispensable tool for investigation. This book is a philosophical examination of techniques and assumptions related to modelling and simulation with the goal of showing how these abstract descriptions can contribute to our understanding of the physical world. Particular issues include the role of fictional models in science, how mathematical formalisms can yield physical information, and how we should approach the use of inconsistent models for specific types of systems. It also addresses the role of simulation, specifically the conditions under which simulation can be seen as a technique for measurement, replacing more traditional experimental approaches. Inherent worries about the legitimacy of simulation "knowledge " are also addressed, including an analysis of verification and validation and the role of simulation data in the search for the Higgs boson. In light of the significant role played by simulation in the Large Hadron Collider experiments, it is argued that the traditional distinction between simulation and experiment is no longer applicable in some contexts of modern science. Consequently, a re-evaluation of the way and extent to which simulation delivers empirical knowledge is required. "This is a, lively, stimulating, and important book by one of the main scholars contributing to current topics and debates in our field. It will be a major resource for philosophers of science, their students, scientists interested in examining scientific practice, and the general scientifically literate public. "-Bas van Fraassen, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, San Francisco State University

About the Author
Margaret Morrison is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Toronto. Her publications span many fields including general philosophy of science, history and philosophy of physics, and the history of early modern philosophy (especially Kant). She has also published articles on methodological issues related to the development of population genetics.

Reviews
each chapter can stand alone, contributing an argument or position to a specific question related to modeling, and offering insight into specific instances of modeling through the case studies ... The examples in the book can provide meaningful considerations then for those looking to understand modeling in context, which may be the best way to understand how contemporary science is engaged in the practice of reconstructing reality. * Melissa Jacquart, Science and Education *
In sum, Morrison's new book is a rich and provocative contribution to several core debates in current philosophy of science such as explanations and understanding, idealizations, models, and computer simulations. Even if one is not convinced by all of the points that Morrison makes in (what we call) a 'particularist' and 'therapeutic' style, one thing is for sure: if one wants to defend a 'general philosophical account' of some of the discussed topics, then one has to respond to the criticisms forcefully presented in Reconstructing Reality. * Alexander Reutlinger and Stephan Hartmann, British Journal for the Philosophy of Science *
Morrison's look at concrete and intricate cases of modeling raises a number of interesting issues, and at places, her piecemeal approach is as refreshing as her claims are thought-provoking. The book thus is a valuable reading for philosophers who work on modeling in physics. * Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews Online *
Her limpid exposition and copious use of example in the interpretation of the function of models in different investigative contexts is an essential contribution to the current debate about the role of reconstructive methods in the practice of science ... Highly recommended. * L. C. Archie, CHOICE *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199380275
Author Margaret Morrison
Format Hardback
Page Count 344
Imprint Oxford University Press Inc
Publisher Oxford University Press Inc
Dimensions(mm) 150mm * 213mm * 36mm