Philosophy of Physics

Philosophy of physics explores what our best physical theories tell us about the world. Research and teaching in the field have expanded rapidly in recent years and Philosophy of Physics: A Contemporary Introduction provides a broad, accessible overview, suitable for students in both philosophy and the sciences. The book covers all the main physical theories discussed by philosophers of physics, including Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, special relativity, general relativity, quantum mechanics, quantum field theory, loop quantum gravity, string theory, and the Λ-CDM cosmological model of our universe. It looks in detail at key debates: the nature of space and time, the quantum measurement problem, the arrow of time, and the fine-tuning of the constants of nature. Along the way it explores a host of absorbing philosophical questions about how physics works. How can we select between competing philosophical interpretations of our best theories? How do the theoretical and experimental practices used by physicists generate reliable knowledge? And in what different ways can physical theories successfully represent the world?Throughout the book, chapter summaries, study questions and suggested reading lists support both classroom learning and independent study. A comprehensive glossary of relevant terms from both philosophy and physics is included, making this an essential reference for students – with or without a physics background – as well as for physicists interested in philosophical questions.Key Features and Benefits A broadly based and accessible introduction to philosophy of physics, easily understood by upper-level undergraduates majoring in philosophy or the natural sciencesIncludes summaries, and suggested readings lists for each chapter, helping the reader get a firm foothold in the discipline and areas of future studyDesigned to allow maximum flexibility for the structure of the course in which it is adoptedA single, comprehensive glossary defines relevant key terms in philosophy, physics, and other natural sciencesThough a stand-alone textbook, Philosohpy of Physics: A Contemporary Introduction frequently references, The Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Physics, which is a large, multiauthored reference anthology. Anyone using both publications would have all they need to gain a basic yet comprehensive understanding of the subject.