موقع المحاكاة الحاسوبية على الخريطة الميثودلوجية

Abstract EN

This study investigates how one should understand the exact methodological nature of computer simulations and the degree of justification for their use.

Philosophers of science have adopted a number of different perspectives when it comes to answerring the question: Where do computer simulation techniques site on the traditional methodological map? Through a critical analysis, this study compares computer simulations with the nature of theory, scientific models and thought experiments, and takes into account whether these simulations raise new methodological and epistemological issues or not.

The study emphasizes that despite the existence of common features between the methodology of theories, models, thought experiments and simulations, there are many features that distinguish it and make it a new scientific tool whose powers and limits have not been perfectly understood yet.