Topical Collection Description

Title: Probabilistic Reasoning in the Sciences

Journal: Synthese

Guest editors:
– Michał Sikorski (Marche Polytechnic University)
– Alexander Gebharter (Marche Polytechnic University)
– Barbara Osimani (Marche Polytechnic University)

Deadline: January 31, 2025.

Information page: https://link.springer.com/collections/eaaaejgebj

Submissions are to be made via https://www.editorialmanager.com/synt/default.aspx

When submitting, select “T.C. : Probabilistic Reasoning in the Sciences” in the drop-down TC list.

Submission guidelines: https://link.springer.com/journal/11229/submission-guidelines

Description:
This topical collection focuses on probabilistic reasoning in science broadly construed. It is based on a conference on the same topic held at the end of August at the Marche Polytechnic University in Ancona, Italy (https://cpsp.univpm.it/news-events/conference/). Scientists have used probabilistic tools for a variety of tasks, for instance, to model studied phenomena, while philosophers have applied them to reconstruct scientific practice or develop new normative proposals. Approaches such as probabilistic semantics, inductive logic, and various versions of Bayesian approaches have proven fruitful. Furthermore, as demonstrated during the conference, probabilistic tools in scientific contexts remain relevant and actively studied. We are confident that the continued development and application of probabilistic tools will yield valuable insights. Consequently, we believe that the proposed topical collection will make a meaningful contribution to the literature. Additionally, we believe that including a wide spectrum of papers using similar tools to address different problems will enhance the collection. It will not only shed light on the potential structural similarities between these problems, but also facilitate further development of more general theories.

Overall, this topical collection brings together new perspectives on probabilistic reasoning, in particular its current developments. Its goal is to put together and catalyze the ongoing research on these research topics by exploring research questions such as:

– How can probability be used to model and understand learning?
– How can probabilistic reasoning address problematic scientific phenomena, such as biases?
– Can scientifically relevant linguistic structures, such as conditional causal claims, regularities, or functions, be represented in probabilistic terms?
– Are there limits to Bayesianism in the philosophy of science, and if so, what are they?
– What are the consequences of different interpretations of probability for its usage?

and many others. Investigations from the philosophy of science and all scientific fields are welcome. We particularly encourage members of underrepresented groups to submit. Submitted papers will be subject to the usual review process of Synthese.

For further information, please contact the guest editor(s) by sending an email to:
michalpsikorski@gmail.com or alexander.gebharter@gmail.com

The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2025.