What are general models about?

Abstract Models provide scientists with knowledge about target systems. An important group of models are those that called general . However, what exactly is meant by generality in this context somewhat unclear. The aim paper to draw out a distinction between two notions has implications for scientific practice. Some the sense they apply many systems world and have particular targets. Another captured aimed at understanding fundamental or underlying dynamics phenomenon, as opposed how it manifests each case. They non-specific, i.e. generic targets While both genericness legitimate correspond different aspects practice, must be distinguished. Failing do so obscures danger overgeneralisation faced facilitates illegitimate use models. This can lead reduction explanatory predictive power both.