Einstein

NOTE EDITORE

Albert Einstein (1879–1955) was the most influential physicist of the20th century. Less well known is that fundamental philosophical problems, such as concept formation, the role of epistemology in developing and explaining the character of physical theories, and the debate between positivism and realism, played a central role in his thought as a whole. Thomas Ryckman shows that already at the beginning of his career - at a time when the twin pillars of classical physics, Newtonian mechanics and Maxwell’s electromagnetism were known to have but limited validity - Einstein sought to advance physical theory by positing certain physical principles as secure footholds. That philosophy produced his greatest triumph, the general theory of relativity, and his greatest failure, an unwillingness to accept quantum mechanics. This book shows that Einstein’s philosophy grew from a lifelong aspiration for a unified theoretical representation encompassing all physical phenomena. It also considers how Einstein’s theories of relativity and criticisms of quantum theory shaped the course of 20th-century philosophy of science. Including a chronology, glossary, chapter summaries, and suggestions for further reading, Einstein is an ideal introduction to this iconic figure in 20th-century science and philosophy. It is essential reading for students of philosophy of science, and isalso suitable for those working in related areas such as physics, history of science, or intellectual history.

SOMMARIO

Chronology Introduction 1. Life and Works Part 1: Quantum theory 2. On the road to Planck 1900 3. Contributions to the old quantum theory 4. Quantum mechanics Part 2: Relativity 5. Special relativity 6. General relativity Part 3: Geometry and philosophy 7. Geometry and experience 8. Philosophy of science – realism 9. Philosophy of science – constructivism 10. Philosophy of science – rationalism 11. Influence and Legacy Glossary Index.

AUTORE

Thomas Ryckman is Professor of Philosophy at Stanford University, USA. He is author of The Reign of Relativity: Philosophy in Physics 1915–1925 (2005).

ALTRE INFORMAZIONI

• Condizione: Nuovo
• ISBN: 9780415773263
• Collana: The Routledge Philosophers
• Dimensioni: 8.5 x 5.5 in Ø 1.00 lb
• Formato: Copertina rigida
• Pagine Arabe: 406
• Pagine Romane: xxii