String Theory and the Scientific MethodCambridge University Press, 2 maj 2013 String theory has played a highly influential role in theoretical physics for nearly three decades and has substantially altered our view of the elementary building principles of the Universe. However, the theory remains empirically unconfirmed, and is expected to remain so for the foreseeable future. So why do string theorists have such a strong belief in their theory? This book explores this question, offering a novel insight into the nature of theory assessment itself. Dawid approaches the topic from a unique position, having extensive experience in both philosophy and high-energy physics. He argues that string theory is just the most conspicuous example of a number of theories in high-energy physics where non-empirical theory assessment has an important part to play. Aimed at physicists and philosophers of science, the book does not use mathematical formalism and explains most technical terms. |
Innehåll
| 5 | |
The conceptual framework | 39 |
The assessment of scientific underdetermination | 50 |
A WIDER PERSPECTIVE | 73 |
Scientific underdetermination in physics and beyond | 97 |
PHYSICS AND TRUTH | 127 |
An altered perspective on scientific realism | 157 |
| 191 | |
| 198 | |
Andra upplagor - Visa alla
Vanliga ord och fraser
alternative theories analysis arguments assessments of limitations assessments of scientific atomism Bayesian coherent concept confirmed constitute context crucial define developed difficult dimensions electroweak electroweak scale empirical confirmation empirical data empirical testing energy scale existence explanation final theory claim find first fit framework free parameters fundamental physics gauge field theory gauge symmetry gauge theory global Higgs particle high energy physics imply inference inflation interactions limitations to scientific limitations to underdetermination loop quantum gravity microphysical non-empirical theory assessment observed ontological paradigm of theory particle physics perspective phenomena philosophical possible predictive success principle problem quantum mechanics question rely role scenario scientific knowledge scientific process scientific realism scientific reasoning scientific theories scientific underdetermination scientists significant specific standard model statements strategies string physicists string physics string theory structurally unique theory supergravity supersymmetry T-duality theoretical theorists theory building theory confirmation theory’s viability trust unconceived alternatives unconfirmed theories understanding unification