Studiolino

2008-12-17

What's in a good model

After reading Joshua M. Epstein comprehensive explanation of why we make models, I asked my self which elements does a good model contain? and well this is my list:

  • Prose: because the use of a informal human language creates a mental image of the system.
  • Illustration: because a drawing acts as a map of the system.
  • Numbers: because numbers, originating from either measurements or assumptions, are inherent to system and they can be calculated up on.
  • Algorithm: because to make even the simplest algorithm that describes a system the connections within the system has to be identified.
  • Mathematics: because mathematical notation demands formality in thinking.

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