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domainfor the model. Every domain is made up of a set of elements that make the domain be what it is. The goal of modeling is to present the that domain so that we can understand why observable elements behave it is modeling, along with the elements of that domain that are relevant structure of
as they do. As we use the term, a constitute a determinate domain. When the model enables us to understand the integration of life on or within the structure, it is possible to respond theologically to a domain. At least, that is our contention.structure is what integrates elements that
enon under investigation. Some models are more successful than other ones. In time, one model among many may come to give superior insight and to provide better explanations over a wider and wider range of phenomena. In Models compete with each other to explain and interpret some phenom-
that case, the model takes on the character of a ened models, which are extended over a wider and wider range. Theories take their place within an overarching conceptual framework called a digm. (^14) Paradigms provide the means to extend or modify theories into theory. Theories are broad-para-
entirely new domains. Shifts in paradigms occur when anomalies appear that defy successful modeling on the basis of the reigning paradigm and thus sug-gest radically new models with features that do not come from the reigning paradigm to explain them. In this book, we have actually been advocating
a paradigm shift from the clash between humanism and theism into the outlook of imagination and creativity. The activity is akin to making works of art, writ-Constructing models, whether in science or any other discipline, requires theological humanism.
ing poetry, or composing music in its use of hunches, intuition, and experi-mental play.phenomena of “semantic innovation” or meaning-creation. Models, like metaphors, have the capacity to provoke the mind to think something new (^15) Viewed as a creation of language, models, like metaphors, are
by seeing a resemblance previously unnoticed. They display humility of mind because they invite criticism and ask to be refuted in the name of a truth that the modeling activity always imperfectly approaches and never actually reaches. Constructing models fits theological humanism, precisely because
modeling combines epistemic humility with testability. Models are fallible constructions of the imagination, but the best models give partial insight into the nature of some domain of reality. The history of modeling in any domain allows for a progressive, albeit limited approach toward objective
truth, which is their ultimate yet unrealizable goal.the capacity of human beings for reflective goods.We now propose some beginning steps toward constructing a model of