The aim of this course is to specify and address philosophical issues in two of the main “pillars” of modern physics: Spacetime physics (e.g. General and Special Relativity) and Quantum physics. While there are general issues in the philosophy of science that also apply to the domain of physics (such as realism, demarcation, reduction, explanation, etc), the aim of this course is to address the philosophical puzzles that come up specifically in physics. In particular, we will focus on these questions:
What are space and time?
How is time different from space?
Is the world deterministic or not?
What does it mean for a physical theory to be probabilistic?
The course will be structured such that a relevant background for each of the physical theories discussed will be given before diving into the philosophical aspects of that theory. It is neither required, nor would it be superfluous, to have a background in physics. The readings will be available on Moodle.
What are space and time?
How is time different from space?
Is the world deterministic or not?
What does it mean for a physical theory to be probabilistic?
The course will be structured such that a relevant background for each of the physical theories discussed will be given before diving into the philosophical aspects of that theory. It is neither required, nor would it be superfluous, to have a background in physics. The readings will be available on Moodle.
- Kursleiter/in: Nicholas Rebol
Semester: WT 2024/25