Practices of Prediction in Science and Engineering

This collection of excerpts examines the historical and philosophical development of prediction in science and engineering, particularly through the lens of mathematical tools and computational advancements. It argues against a monolithic view of prediction, instead revealing a dynamic interplay between epistemology, technology, mathematics, and social organization, leading to evolving "cultures of prediction." The sources trace these shifts across centuries and various fields, from early ballistics to modern computational chemistry, systems modeling, and artificial intelligence. Key themes include the coevolution of prediction methods with mathematical techniques and technological capabilities, the varying roles of empirical observation and rational theory, and the emergence of new predictive approaches with the advent of computers. The text also explores debates surrounding the nature of scientific and engineering knowledge and the increasing importance of computational tools in shaping predictive practices. Ultimately, the sources challenge the notion of prediction as a simple outcome of scientific knowledge, emphasizing its complex and evolving nature within different historical and technological contexts.