Keywords
ciencia histórica
modelos experimentales geology
historical science
experimental models
How to Cite
Abstract
Geology is a science that uniquely integrates approaches from both the historical and experimental natural sciences. Despite its diverse nature, this field has not been sufficiently explored within the philosophy of science, particularly regarding its epistemic value and explanatory structure as a historical science. Historically, experimental research has been employed in geology to validate theories explaining remote phenomena. This paper analyzes forms of explanation in geology from the narrative (storytelling) perspective, emphasizing coherence, the use of models, and productive speculation. It also evaluates the epistemic character of explanations derived from experimental models, discussing the relationship between these two modes of explanation and the epistemic value they offer for addressing new challenges in the production of knowledge within the Earth sciences.
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