On the Validation of Computer Science Theories,

Abstract

We address normatively the demarcation problem for Computer Science: How can Computer Science research be conducted scientifically? First we attempt to delimit the subject matter of Computer Science, and conclude that it is not computers but programs. Since programs are not physical objects, it is difficult to see how they can be studied empircally. The rest of the paper is devoted to an explanation of how this can be done. This method is first illustrated by a hypothesis of narrow scope, analogous to a physical law. Next it is illustrated by a theory of wide scope - the Turing Machine model of computers. The approach is summarized in the conclusions.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1984
Accession Number
ADA148637

Entities

People

  • B. J. Maclennan

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Algorithms
  • Automata
  • Automata Theory
  • Computer Science
  • Computers
  • Engineering
  • Language
  • Linguistics
  • Machines
  • Mathematical Analysis
  • Mathematical Models
  • Military Research
  • Models
  • New York
  • Numbers
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Theorems

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Computer Science.
  • Theoretical Analysis.