Full Idea
The semantic approach contends that theoretical models ...are candidates for representing physical systems by virtue of the fact that they stand in mapping relations to corresponding data-models.
Gist of Idea
Theoretical models can represent, by mapping onto the data-models
Source
Demetris Portides (Models [2008], 'Current')
Book Reference
'Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Science', ed/tr. Psillos,S/Curd,M [Routledge 2010], p.388
A Reaction
Sounds like a neat and satisfying picture.
Related Idea
Idea 17498 In the 'received view' models are formal; the 'semantic view' emphasises representation [Portides, by PG]