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Computer Simulation Validation

Fundamental Concepts, Methodological Frameworks, and Philosophical Perspectives

  • Introduces the most important ideas, techniques and strategies of validation
  • Presents an interdisciplinary approach, considering simulations from both natural and social sciences
  • Includes philosophical reflection on the validation of computer simulation

Part of the book series: Simulation Foundations, Methods and Applications (SFMA)

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Table of contents (43 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-xiii
  2. Introduction: Computer Simulation Validation

    • Claus Beisbart, Nicole J. Saam
    Pages 1-31
  3. Foundations—Validation as a Scientific Method: Philosophical Frameworks for Thinking about Validation

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 143-143
  4. Methodology—Preparatory Steps

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 247-247
  5. Methodology—Points of Reference and Related Techniques

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 355-355

About this book

This unique volume introduces and discusses the methods of validating computer simulations in scientific research. The core concepts, strategies, and techniques of validation are explained by an international team of pre-eminent authorities, drawing on expertise from various fields ranging from engineering and the physical sciences to the social sciences and history. The work also offers new and original philosophical perspectives on the validation of simulations.

Topics and features: introduces the fundamental concepts and principles related to the validation of computer simulations, and examines philosophical frameworks for thinking about validation; provides an overview of the various strategies and techniques available for validating simulations, as well as the preparatory steps that have to be taken prior to validation; describes commonly used reference points and mathematical frameworks applicable to simulation validation; reviews the legal prescriptions, and the administrative and procedural activities related to simulation validation; presents examples of best practice that demonstrate how methods of validation are applied in various disciplines and with different types of simulation models; covers important practical challenges faced by simulation scientists when applying validation methods and techniques; offers a selection of general philosophical reflections that explore the significance of validation from a broader perspective.

This truly interdisciplinary handbook will appeal to a broad audience, from professional scientists spanning all natural and social sciences, to young scholars new to research with computer simulations. Philosophers of science, and methodologists seeking to increase their understanding of simulation validation, will also find much to benefit from in the text.

Editors and Affiliations

  • University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland

    Claus Beisbart

  • Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany

    Nicole J. Saam

About the editors

Prof. Dr. Dr. Claus Beisbart is Professor for Philosophy of Science (Extraordinarius) in the Institute for Philosophy at the University of Bern, Switzerland.

Prof. Dr. Nicole J. Saam is Professor for Sociology (Chair) in the Institute of Sociology at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.

Bibliographic Information

Buy it now

Buying options

eBook USD 189.00
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Hardcover Book USD 249.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access