Objectivity, Invariance, and Convention : Symmetry in Physical Science / Michael L. G. Redhead, Talal A. Debs.
2009
JA66 .D84 2008
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Title
Objectivity, Invariance, and Convention : Symmetry in Physical Science / Michael L. G. Redhead, Talal A. Debs.
Author
Debs, Talal A., author.
ISBN
9780674034136
Published
Cambridge, MA : Harvard University Press, [2009]
Copyright
©2007
Language
English
Language Note
In English.
Description
1 online resource (208 p.)
Other Standard Identifiers
10.4159/9780674034136 doi
Call Number
JA66 .D84 2008
Dewey Decimal Classification
320.01
Summary
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.
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Access limited to authorized users.
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Mode of access: Internet via World Wide Web.
Digital File Characteristics
text file PDF
Source of Description
Description based on online resource; title from PDF title page (publisher's Web site, viewed 01. Dez 2022)
Added Author
Redhead, Michael L. G., author.
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Online Access
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Table of Contents
Frontmatter
Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1 Scientific Representation
2 Models, Symmetry, and Convention
3 A New Appraisal of Symmetry
4 Simultaneity and Convention
5 Objectivity in the Twin Paradox
6 Localization in Quantum Theory
Conclusion
Appendix A
Appendix B
Notes
Index
Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1 Scientific Representation
2 Models, Symmetry, and Convention
3 A New Appraisal of Symmetry
4 Simultaneity and Convention
5 Objectivity in the Twin Paradox
6 Localization in Quantum Theory
Conclusion
Appendix A
Appendix B
Notes
Index