The Gap Between Theory and Experience: Evolution of a Problem from Catastrophe Theory to Semiophysics

Explore the evolution of René Thom's thinking from catastrophe theory to semiophysics in this 47-minute lecture by Sara Franceschelli from ENS Lyon. Delve into Thom's introduction of catastrophe theory as an "art of models" for studying morphogenesis, examining how he utilized Waddington's epigenetic landscape imagery to bridge mathematical models with experience. Trace the persistence of epigenetic landscape concepts throughout Thom's work, highlighting his innovative use of analogies within the morphological tradition. Analyze how Thom's approach to analogy challenges contemporary philosophical interpretations of analogical reasoning in science, and consider the ongoing relevance of his ideas in modern scientific thought.