| Unit name | Philosophical Foundations of Physics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PHIL30054 |
| Credit points | 10 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Professor. Ladyman |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
none |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Philosophy |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
The aim of this unit is to explore metaphysical, methodological, epistemological and conceptual issues that arise in modern physics. We focus on quantum mechanics and relativity theory.
Topics covered include: the Copehagen interpretation of quantum mechanics; the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen experiment and Bell’s theorem; locality and action-at-a-distance; the problem of measurement in quantum mechanics and Schroedinger’s cat paradox; the many worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics; causation and chance; space and time in Aristotle’s, Newton’s, and Einstein’s physics; the notion of simultaneity in Einstein’s theory of relativity; and geometry and relativity physics.
This unit is primarily aimed at students on the joint degrees in Physics and Philosophy, and Mathematics and Philosophy, but it will appeal to anyone with an interest in the conceptual interplay between philosophy and science, or in the metaphysical and methodological foundations of science.
Although students not on joint degree programmes with science and without an A-level in physics and/or mathematics or a similar qualification, will find the unit very challenging, the unit has been successfully taken by philosophy single honours and other arts students.
1 lecture and 1 seminar per week
Examination only (3 hour paper)
