TOK Essay Title May 2025

Title 5: To what extent do you agree with the claim “all models are wrong, but some are useful” (attributed to George Box)? Discuss with reference to mathematics and one other area of knowledge.

The assertion that “all models are wrong, but some are useful” underscores the idea that models, by their very nature, are simplifications of reality, yet they are indispensable tools in various Areas of Knowledge.

Though models might be simplistic methodological representations of reality, to what extent they explain the complex reality is a critical question to reflect through this TOK essay title 5.

In mathematics, models are often based on assumptions and might be an oversimplification of the complex reality. For instance, in calculus, the concept of a limit assumes an infinite process, a concept not fully realized in a real world but imperative in explaining concepts of motion. Students may also consider arithmetic model 2+2=4 as universally true model and its utility.

In the area of human sciences, students may consider The Big Five Personality Traits as an authentic model in explaining its effectiveness for assessing personality. On the other hand, how can one ignore Freud’s model’s flaws but still consider its contribution in resulting improved knowledge through therapeutic approaches.