Group Structural Realism (Part 2)

ther than on particular representations thereof” (Sewell 2002, 18). So why choose GSR over all these other options? Here the two overarching aims of structural realism come into play: groups are thought to do a better job of providing a general programmatic account of science, or of solving specific problems in the interpretation of scientific theory. We’ll discuss why this is in the next post. Soul Physics is authored by Bryan W. Roberts. Thanks…

Read more

Philosophy and Physics in the Kadison-Singer Conjecture

…tions of those observables (like , , etc.). The resulting set is called a “maximal abelian algebra.” This set represents the most we can learn from a single experiment. Determine the basic probabilities (i.e., pure states). Arrange your lab in some way, and then repeat an experiment that determines the values of those observables. Then do it again. After enough repetitions, you’ll be able to choose a probability distribution for the experiment. A…

Read more

Can Time Unfold in the Wrong Direction?

…‘time unfolds from Harold’s crowning towards Harold’s death’ can only be valuated according to the subjective judgement of one observer. Other observers, such as the accelerating astronaut, are equally correct to valuate the claim differently. Thus, in this sense, there is no objective fact of the matter as to the order in which time unfolds. Soul Physics is authored by Bryan W. Roberts. Thanks for subscribing. Want more Soul Physics? Try the Soul…

Read more

Stop commercializing academic publishing

…ems. I’m sure you’ve done the calculation: how many people can be expected buy the textbook at that price? Not many. Not to mention that we could pick up two copies of J. K. Rowling’s “complete works” for this royal sum. This is not dissemination of information. This is you failing the academic community. Because of your silliness, Souriau’s scholarship is not being widely shared in the way that the academic community needs. In this case, the auth…

Read more

Happy 2009! Five Tutorials for Philosophers of Physics

…Broaden your horizons in the new year with everyone’s favorite philosophy of science database. Here are some tricks to ease the experience. Get Started Reading Books and Articles on the Cheap. Trying to save money this year? Stop paying so much to read! Get Started Learning General Relativity Online. Free general relativity — what more could you ask for in 2009? Get Started Improving Your Philosophical Apparel. Get a new look for the new year. Her…

Read more