Revision under Finite Conditions A Theory of Model Transformation in Epistemics

The paper thus shows that scientific rationality under finite conditions consists not only in stabilization, critique, and exploration, but equally in the controlled capacity to transform existing model orders. It begins from the observation that scientific rationality cannot be adequately described if one considers only stabilization, falsification, search, or complete model replacement. Between the provisional retention of a model and its complete replacement lies a field of regulated transformations, which the present contribution conceptualizes and systematizes as revision. Revision denotes the rule-governed transformation of a model or model nexus under conditions of rising friction, declining validity, increasing costs, or intensifying domain conflicts. The paper clarifies the structural position of revision within Epistemics and distinguishes it from adjacent operations such as falsification, search, and mere stabilization. On that basis, it develops a typology of local, structural, domain-related, and global revision. It also identifies typical triggers of revision, formulates criteria of rational revision, and analyzes central pathologies, including omitted, delayed, cosmetic, and disproportional revision, as well as ontologization that blocks revision. The central thesis is that revision constitutes the mediating transformative operation between friction, falsification, and search. Friction signals strain, falsification marks loss of validity, search opens the space of possible alternatives, and revision organizes the actual transformation of the model. The paper thus shows that scientific rationality under finite conditions consists not only in stabilization, critique, and exploration, but equally in the controlled capacity to transition existing model orders.