Opacity thought through: on the intransparency of computer simulations

Abstract Computer simulations are often claimed to be opaque and thus lack transparency. But what exactly is the opacity of simulations? This paper aims answer that question by proposing an explication opacity. Such needed, I argue, because pioneering definition P. Humphreys a recent elaboration Durán Formanek too narrow. While it true in they include many computations cannot checked hand, this doesn’t exhaust we might want call simulations. make fresh start with natural idea method its disposition resist knowledge understanding. draw on work understanding elaborate systematic investigation into type required if avoided why sort understanding, particular, difficult achieve. My proposal degree it’s for humans know understand outcomes arise. allows comparison between different methods regarding It further refers kind epistemic access important scientific