Identity in Physics: A Historical, Philosophical, and Formal Analysis
(Hardcover)
by Steven French (Author), Decio Krause
Product Details
Hardcover: 448 pages
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
(August 17, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0199278245
ISBN-13: 978-0199278244
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.4 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
(August 17, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0199278245
ISBN-13: 978-0199278244
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.4 x 1.3 inches
Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
Review
"Identity in Pysics is scientifically and technically sophisticated and provides a model of how metaphysics ought to be done. It is essential reading for philosophers of physics, metaphysicians and logicians interested in identity and individuality, and is highly recommended for anyone interested in
the history and philosophy of physics, or non-standard approaches to logic and set theory. French and Krause are to be congratulated on producing a rich and comprehensive book worthy of careful study."--James Ladyman, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews
Product Description
Steven French and Decio Krause examine the metaphysical foundations of quantum physics. They draw together historical, logical, and philosophical perspectives on the fundamental nature of quantum particles and offer new insights on a range of important issues. Focusing on the concepts of
identity and individuality, the authors explore two alternative metaphysical views; according to one, quantum particles are no different from books, tables, and people in this respect; according to the other, they most certainly are. Each view comes with certain costs attached and after describing
their origins in the history of quantum theory, the authors carefully consider whether these costs are worth bearing. Recent contributions to these discussions are analyzed in detail and the authors present their own original perspective on the issues. The final chapter suggests how this perspective
can be taken forward in the context of quantum field theory.
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