Visual representations (e.g. diagrams, computer graphics, drawings) are used broadly in the sciences and beyond. But how exactly do they fulfil their tasks in processes of knowledge production and distribution? This question will be tackled by international experts from different academic disciplines at the workshop “Visual Reasoning – Visual Arguments”. Their contributions will bridge the gap between theory and practice by presenting insights from selected sciences and the humanities (history, medicine, physics), that is, disciplines that essentially incorporate visual reasoning practices in their research activities. Beyond discussing cases of application, philosophers and media scientists will reflect upon questions concerning the epistemic and persuasive potential of visual representations in the sciences and in the society more broadly.
Can we reason with our eyes only? Do scientists think visually? Can images transmit knowledge? How do visual representations influence public opinion in the politics and beyond?
These topics will be approached in five thematic units:
1) Visual reasoning – vision-based inferences
2) Visual arguments – truth and non-propositional representations in the sciences
3) Visual arguments in public opinion building – ethical and historical perspectives
4) Visual reasoning in the life sciences
5) Visual reasoning – the role of diagrams in physics
Scientific Organizer: Dr. Nicola Mößner (University of Münster), Privatdozent Dr. Martin Langanke (University of Greifswald)
Registration deadline:
May 26, 2017
Contact:
Dipl.-Psych. Julia Henke
Alfried Krupp Wissenschaftskolleg
Telefon +49 (0) 3834 420 5021
Telefax +49 (0) 3834 420 5005
julia.henkewiko-greifswaldde