Modelling Complexity: the case of Climate Science
arXiv:1106.1265 · doi:10.1515/9783110313680.229
Abstract
We briefly review some of the scientific challenges and epistemological issues related to climate science. We discuss the formulation and testing of theories and numerical models, which, given the presence of unavoidable uncertainties in observational data, the non-repeatability of world-experiments, and the fact that relevant processes occur in a large variety of spatial and temporal scales, require a rather different approach than in other scientific contexts. A brief discussion of the intrinsic limitations of geo-engineering solutions to global warming is presented, and a framework of investigation based upon non-equilibrium thermodynamics is proposed. We also critically discuss recently proposed perspectives of development of climate science based purely upon massive use of supercomputer and centralized planning of scientific priorities.
17 pages, 7 figs, Proceeding of the Conference "Modelling Complexity: the case of Climate Science", Hamburg, 2010
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Cited by in corpus (10)
- Mathematical and Physical Ideas for Climate Science
- Predicting Climate Change using Response Theory: Global Averages and Spatial Patterns
- Multi-level Dynamical Systems: Connecting the Ruelle Response Theory and the Mori-Zwanzig Approach
- Ranking IPCC Models Using the Wasserstein Distance
- Disentangling multi-level systems: averaging, correlations and memory
- Can we use linear response theory to assess geoengineering strategies?
- Dynamical Landscape and Multistability of a Climate Model
- Nonequilibrium thermodynamics of circulation regimes in optically-thin, dry atmospheres
- A new diagnostic tool for water, energy and entropy budgets in climate models
- Mechanics and Thermodynamics of a New Minimal Model of the Atmosphere