Abstract:

Simulation in the Social Sciences. Computer simulation—hereafter just called `simulation'— more and more is getting an important tool in scientific research and development. Simulations provide powerful means for quite different scientific disciplines, for instance for cosmology as well as for economics, and it seems that they can help to extend the borderline of science. However, from a methodological point of view, besides their benefits one can identify several theoretical problems which can occur in the process of scientific research. Some of these problems shall be discussed and consequences of these problems for the use of simulations shall be outlined.

Keywords: Instrumentalismus; Realismus; Simulation; Theorieprütung

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1007/s10838-006-9011-8

Affiliations: 1: Email: kweber@euv-frankfurt-o.de