Shorthand Abstractions are
Concepts
that enable us to build more complex
Explicit
Models by compressing the models they stand in for.This is a particularly effective use of the fact that
Concepts
are compressed models.
In other words, they are
terms [that] stands for a cluster of interrelated ideas that virtually spell out a method of critical analysis applicable to social and moral issues. … [T]hey are abstractions with peculiar analytic significance.
The concepts can be given precise (often mathematical) definitions, which helps us Prioritise abstraction over metaphor. Using the abstractions collectively can help Switch from individual model building to collective pattern recognition.
Like all concepts, shorthand abstractions evolve as Memes.
References
- Flynn (2007): What Is Intelligence?