Abstract:
This paper centers around the notion that internal, mental representations
are grounded in structural similarity, i.e., that they are so-called S-representations.
We show how S-representations may be causally relevant and argue that they are
distinct from mere detectors. First, using the neomechanist theory of explanation
and the interventionist account of causal relevance, we provide a precise interpretation
of the claim that in S-representations, structural similarity serves as a ‘‘fuel of
success’’, i.e., a relation that is exploitable for the representation using system.
Then, we discuss crucial differences between S-representations and indicators or
detectors, showing that—contrary to claims made in the literature—there is an
important theoretical distinction to be drawn between the two.
