Philosophical Concepts in Physics: The Historical Relation between Philosophy and Scientific Theories

by James T. Cushing

This book examines a selection of philosophical issues in the context of specific episodes in the development of physical theories and presents scientific advances within their historical and philosophical contexts. Philosophical considerations have played an essential and ineliminable role in the actual practice of science. The book begins with some necessary introduction to the history of ancient and early modern science, but emphasizes the two great watersheds of twentieth-century relativity and quantum mechanics. At times the term "construction" may seem more appropriate than "discovery" for the way theories have developed and, especially in later chapters, the discussion focuses on the influence of historical, philosophical and even social factors on the form and content of scientific theories.

Genres: Philosophy, Physics, Science

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 29, 1998

About the author

James T. Cushing was born 4 February 1937 in Long Beach, California. In 1959, he earned a BS in physics from Loyola University Chicago; a year later, he earned an MS in physics from Northwestern University. For his doctorate, he focused his research on theoretical particle physics under the guidance of adviser Max Dresden. Jim received his PhD in 1963 from the University of Iowa.

Reviews

[khashayar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am currently reading the second part of the book. The book seems to be intriguing.

[MM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent introduction to physical theories and experiments at an introductory level (high school or perhaps some undergraduate education in Chemistry or Physics is required). Particular focus on Newtonian physics vs relativity and on quantum physics. Extremely readable with suggestions for further reading. Appendices contain mathematical proofs, making them easily accessible for a person who is interested. Cushing also presents major thought experiments. That having been said, careful reading is required during the quantum physics' sections as some mathematical notation is unavoidable.

Cushing emphasises the contingency of predominant views in philosophy of science and speaks at length about determinism as predictability. Although causality is touched upon, i think it may be too expansive a topic to deal with in a work of this nature. I wish he had talked a bit more about the nature of space time and how it affects metaphysics. The focus was definitely more on philosophy of science (methodology and realism) than on the relationship between physics and metaphysics.

[Alexandre Guay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Une excellente synthèse susceptible d'intéresser le profane comme le spécialiste.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published in 1998, so a little old now, but still a good read.