1. Models are the mental conception that
we have of the underlying reality. A refined
version of our perceptions. This is why I didn't
really want to say perceptions include our intellectual
assessment - as I see some distinction. They are similar
though.
2. True. I'm not sure that anything is useful. Not sure
that anything is. Take my own existence on faith. But,
if there is some ultimate 'good,' then utility would be
defined in terms of it - and hence usefulness as well.