Figure 04: Functions of models by Klaus Dieter Wüstneck (1969)

 

 

In the „Philosophisches Wörterbuch“, edited by the Eastern Germans Georg Klaus and Manfred Buhr (1969, 731-732) eight functions of model were distinguished:

 

·        Cognition (models of ferments, structure models of proeteins, cybernetic toad, experiments with animals in medicine – also: atom model)

·        Explanation and demonstration (Maxwell’s model of the electric circuit, teaching models, case studies in education)

·        Inidcation (photoelastic models, heart simulator)

·        Variation and Optimizing (net model of energy distribution, models of Operations Research)

·        Verification (test)

·        Projecting or construction (technical workshop drawings, drafts of models for plants or settlements)

·        Control (saved project models, e. g. models of the replicate lathe, learning models, ordnance map with situational reports, sandpit exercises)

·        Substitution (artificial limbs or organs of the human body, heart-lung machine in pratice)

 

Klaus-Dieter Wüstneck: Modell, Modellexperiment, Modellmethode. In Georg Klaus, Manfred Buhr (Ed.): Marxistisch-Leninistisches Wörterbuch der Philosophie. 3 Bde, Hamburg: Rowohlt Taschenbuch Verlag 1972;
Lizenzausgabe der 6. ed. des „Philosophischen Wörterbuchs". Leipzig: VEB Bibliographisches Institut 1969, 729-734.