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If he replaced the word "theory" with "model" it would be much easier to understand the point. (I think I'm the only on-topic comment so far.)
by dkjaudyeqooe 3y ago
If he replaced the word "theory" with "model" it would be much easier to understand the point.
(I think I'm the only on-topic comment so far.)
- deleted 3y ago[deleted]
- ok_dad 3y agoI think the theory encompasses the software itself as an artifact and also the details not included in the software like the problem domain’s details which constrain the software but might not need to be included in the software explicitly. The model of the software might only encompass the specific ways in which the software is written explicitly, in order to understand how it operates in a near vacuum.
- jstanley 3y agoIt's not quite the same. A model is something that you ought to be able to communicate. Theory is something internal, that you can't fully introspect, but you have and you use.
- cammil 3y agoMy definition of model would include the one in your mind, whether or not it may be communicated.
- layer8 3y agoYou need a theory in order to reason about a model. The reasoning ability is the important part.
- alexdowad 3y agoThat is doubtless true for the type of people who frequent Hacker News (mostly computer programmers). But in some other communities, the word 'theory' is commonly used in the same manner as Gilbert Ryle uses it. The author of this article is apparently unaware of that fact.