Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-2017
Keywords
Modelling, Simulation, Values, Bayesian, Evidence
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13194-017-0180-6
Abstract
We call attention to an underappreciated way in which non-epistemic values influence evidence evaluation in science. Our argument draws upon some well-known features of scientific modeling. We show that, when scientific models stand in for background knowledge in Bayesian and other probabilistic methods for evidence evaluation, conclusions can be influenced by the non-epistemic values that shaped the setting of priorities in model development. Moreover, it is often infeasible to correct for this influence. We further suggest that, while this value influence is not particularly prone to the problem of wishful thinking, it could have problematic non-epistemic consequences in some cases.
Rights Information
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
European Journal for Philosophy of Science, v. 8, p. 125-142
Scholar Commons Citation
Parker, Wendy S. and Parker, Wendy S., "Values and Evidence: How Models Make a Difference" (2017). Philosophy Faculty Publications. 319.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/phi_facpub/319
