Objectivity, Invariance, And Convention: Symmetry in Physical Science - Couverture rigide

Debs, Talal A.; Redhead, Michael L. G.

 
9780674022980: Objectivity, Invariance, And Convention: Symmetry in Physical Science
Couverture rigide
ISBN 10 : 067402298X ISBN 13 : 9780674022980
Editeur : Harvard University Press, 2007

Synopsis

Most observers agree that modern physical theory attempts to provide objective representations of reality. However, the claim that these representations are based on conventional choices is viewed by many as a denial of their objectivity. As a result, objectivity and conventionality in representation are often framed as polar opposites.

Offering a new appraisal of symmetry in modern physics, employing detailed case studies from relativity theory and quantum mechanics, Objectivity, Invariance, and Convention contends that the physical sciences, though dependent on convention, may produce objective representations of reality. Talal Debs and Michael Redhead show that both realists and constructivists have recognized important elements of an understanding of science that may not be contradictory.

The position--"perspectival invariantism"--introduced in this book highlights the shortcomings of existing approaches to symmetry in physics, and, for the constructivist, demonstrates that a dependence on conventions in representation reaches into the domain of the most technical sciences. For the realist, it stands as evidence against the claim that conventionality must undermine objectivity. We can be committed to the existence of a single real ontology while maintaining a cultural view of science.

Les informations fournies dans la section « Synopsis » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.

À propos des auteurs

Talal A. Debs is Research Associate at the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Michael L. G. Redhead is Co-Director of the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.

Éditeur
Harvard University Press
Date d'édition
2007
Langue
anglais
ISBN 10 
067402298X
ISBN 13 
9780674022980
Reliure
Relié
Nombre de pages
208
Coordonnées du fabricant
non disponible
Personne responsable
non disponible