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Cambridge Studies in Probability, Induction and Decision Theory
The Concept of Probability in Statistical Physics
Foundational issues in statistical mechanics and the more general question of how probability is to be understood in the context of physical theories are both areas that have been neglected by philosophers of physics. This book fills an important gap in the literature by providing a most systematic study of how to interpret probabilistic assertions in the context of statistical mechanics. The book explores both subjectivist and objectivist accounts of probability, and takes full measure of work in the foundations of probability theory, in statistical mechanics, and in mathematical theory. It will be of particular interest to philosophers of science, physicists and mathematicians interested in foundational issues, and also to historians of science.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 1999
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December 7, 2024
The book explores the concept of probability in statistical physics, as indicated by its title. It begins with a dual perspective, contrasting the objective and subjective interpretations of probability. The first few chapters, particularly up to the discussion of Jaynes' interpretation, are excellent—both comprehensive and filled with insightful views.
However, as the book progresses into topics like ergodicity, topological dynamics, and related concepts, its clarity diminishes. The author seems to lose focus, becoming entangled in obscure and poorly written formulas that fail to effectively support the philosophical arguments being made.
In my view, the book neglects a crucial aspect of probability: the foundational framework established by Kolmogorov, which inherently incorporates algorithms and codes. This omission significantly weakens the discussion, as it heavily focuses on ideas from Western mathematicians, leaving the philosophical underpinnings of probability incomplete. Moreover, essential contributions to the understanding of randomness—such as those by Martin-Löf, Solomonoff, and works in Ramsey theory—are entirely absent from the book.
The attempt to connect probability in statistical physics to topological dynamics does little to support the philosophical perspective the author seems to aim for. As a result, the book struggles to provide a cohesive and thorough exploration of its central theme.
However, as the book progresses into topics like ergodicity, topological dynamics, and related concepts, its clarity diminishes. The author seems to lose focus, becoming entangled in obscure and poorly written formulas that fail to effectively support the philosophical arguments being made.
In my view, the book neglects a crucial aspect of probability: the foundational framework established by Kolmogorov, which inherently incorporates algorithms and codes. This omission significantly weakens the discussion, as it heavily focuses on ideas from Western mathematicians, leaving the philosophical underpinnings of probability incomplete. Moreover, essential contributions to the understanding of randomness—such as those by Martin-Löf, Solomonoff, and works in Ramsey theory—are entirely absent from the book.
The attempt to connect probability in statistical physics to topological dynamics does little to support the philosophical perspective the author seems to aim for. As a result, the book struggles to provide a cohesive and thorough exploration of its central theme.
Displaying 1 of 1 review