Between structure and function. A syncretic account of scientific representation

José Díez (Universidad de Barcelona, Espanha)

Abstract The goal of this talk is to sketch a syncretic account of scientific representation that combines some elements of previous approaches, while disregarding other elements that are considered troublesome. My aim is to provide an analysis that is weak enough to be applied to the plethora of different models in use in empirical science, but strong enough to provide substantive answers to the main problems concerning scientific representation while satisfying certain relevant desiderata. The account is syncretic insofar as it is partially inherentist and partially functionalist, integrating a weakened version of some inherentist ideas with an essential functional component. In order for this integration to be possible, the account introduces some pragmatic elements at crucial points.