References: (0272, 0273)
Paul (0268) wrote: "... anything is gained by looking at it at [behavioral]
level when the molecular level explains the phenomenon perfectly."
Understanding of the physics or interactions is the most important element
in explaining any phenomenon perfectly. However, translating this
understanding into a useful "language" for simulation or other purposes
can be challenging. The challenge can be summarized by my esteemed professor
John Sterman (0273): "... the Navier-Stokes equations perfectly describe
fluid dynamics from first principles (Newtons laws) - except no one can solve
them ... All fluid dynamics in practice rests therefore on approximations and
models at higher levels of aggregation."
Do keep in mind that assumptions and approximations should be made only once
the physics or interactions have been understood.
Models at higher levels of aggregation can help shed some light on the
interactions of the elements that produce certain behavior. They can also
be helpful in testing hypotheses about the driving mechanism in the system.
Regards,
Benny Budiman
bbens@MIT.EDU