Embedding and customizing templates in cross-disciplinary modeling

In this paper, I develop a template-based analysis to include several elements of processes through which templates are transferred between fields of inquiry. The analysis builds on Justin Price's identification of the importance of a landing zone in the recipient domain, from which conceptual pressure may be created. I will argue that conceptual pressure is a characteristic feature of the process of template transfer; that this means that there are costs to the process of transfer as well as benefits; and that it would be reasonable if modelers try to mitigate these costs. I will discuss two such mitigation strategies: 'conceptual embedding' and 'customization'. I illustrate the claims, focusing on the mitigation strategies, with a case study: that of pioneering applications of reaction-diffusion equations in mathematical ecology.

Automated summary

In this paper, a template-based analysis is developed to study the process of transferring templates between different fields. The analysis builds on Justin Price's concept of a landing zone in the recipient domain, which creates conceptual pressure. The paper argues that conceptual pressure is a characteristic feature of template transfer, resulting in both costs and benefits. Two mitigation strategies, 'conceptual embedding' and 'customization', are discussed to reduce these costs. The claims and mitigation strategies are illustrated with a case study on the application of reaction-diffusion equations in mathematical ecology.