Visual Prototypes

In this paper I introduce the concept of "visual prototype" to capture one particular kind of work done by visual representation in the practice of science. I use an example from neuroscience; more particularly, the example of the visual representation of the pattern of convolutions (the gyri and sulci) of the human cortex as this pattern is constructed and used in the practice of mapping the functional human brain. I argue that this work--which is visual representation as distinct from linguistic representation--is an essential piece of the human brain mapping project. Word Count: Abstract: 94 Article: 4814 Note: Because of the visual nature of this article (i.e. the large number of figures necessary to the argument), it is perhaps not suitable for publication in Philosophy of Science. The present version of this paper is designed for presentation (with transparencies). A different version could be prepared for publication.