Abstract

Aerts, D., Broekaert, J. & Smets, S.

An interdisciplinary construction, based on a model of layered reality and a corresponding model of knowledge representation, is being developed in the aim of an integrating world view. The dimension of philosophy of science in the construction aims for the integration of fragmentary approaches to reality: the layered structure of reality, characterised by the different scientific disciplines, is considered as an ontological point of departure for the construction of a dynamical and transformational model of reality. A prototypical model for transformation- and emergence processes between two layers - the quantum mechanical and the classic mechanical layers - is further developed and transposed to the layers of social scientific concern. The world view theme, developed in an integrated model of dynamically transforming layers, is analysed as an example of a potential ontology based on contemporary sciences. Special attention is paid to the implications of the development of this model concerning the relation between 'hard' and 'soft' sciences: consequences for the ethics and praxis are investigated in the contexts of perception, and opinion formation and decision making.