| Unit name | Philosophical Issues of Physical Sciences |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PHIL30052 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| 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. This unit should be of special interest to students in the joint degrees in Physics and Philosophy, and Mathematics and Philosophy. But it should appeal to anyone with an interest in the conceptual interplay between philosophy and science, or in the metaphysical and methodological foundations of science. Some knowledge of linear algebra and differential calculus would prove an advantage, and an "A"-level in physics and/or mathematics, or a similar qualification, is typically expected. Topics covered may include: Space and time in Aristotles, Newtons, and Einsteins physics; the notion of simultaneity in Einsteins theory of relativity; the role of geometry in relativity physics; the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen experiment; Schrvdingers "cat" paradox; locality and action-at-a-distance; the problem of measurement in quantum mechanics; causation and chance in atomic physics.
