Pictorial representations in the life sciences

Pictorial representations (e.g. photographs and diagrams) are common in the life sciences. They are convenient ways to communicate the results of investigations to peers and, potentially, a wider audience. But it is thought that they can also be involved in the process of research itself, e.g. by assisting the development of explanatory models. Furthermore, it has been argued that they can play an evidential role within scientific arguments. This project investigates the precise roles of pictorial representations, their unique qualities and limitations, which are still little understood.

An interdisciplinary approach to this topic is welcome, e.g. by combining philosophical analysis with historical and/or psychological research.