Mechanistic Explanations at Work: Accounting for Pragmatic Considerations in Science and Philosophy (2008)
Tschaepe, Mark Dietrich (Author)
Southern Illinois University at Carbondale
Hickman, Larry A.
Edition Details: Advisor: Hickman, Larry A.
Physical Details: 125 pp.
Language: English
***** In this work I argue that mechanistic explanations are to be understood as tools for solving exigencies when we account for pragmatic considerations in formulating such explanations. My focus is on pragmatic considerations in regard to neural explanations for behavior, specifically mechanistic explanations for pair bonding, which are to be utilized in explaining monogamous behavior. In order to make this argument, I introduce the reader to mechanisms and mechanistic explanations, pragmatics and pragmatic considerations, and current mechanism sketches for monogamous behavior. I then make the argument that mechanistic explanations are tools for solving exigencies. I also pose possible objections to the argument for a technological understanding of mechanistic explanations. These possible objections included issues stemming from the use of models, neural explanations for behavioral exigencies, and the instrumentalism implicit in a technological approach to mechanistic explanations. Finally, I provide a brief conclusion to my argument, followed by the suggestion that the account of pragmatic considerations regarding mechanistic explanations put forth in this work pertains to other domains of discourse and behavior. *****
...MoreDescription Looks at a case study of neural explanations for behavior used to explain monogamous behavior. Cited in Diss. Abstr. Int. A 69/12 (2009).
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