From the beginning, the implications of quantum theory for our most general understanding of the world have been a matter of intense debate. The contributors to this volume wrestle with questions such as how can a clash between the two fundamental theories of modern physics, relativity and quantum theory, be avoided?
Philosophical considerations always have played an essential role in the actual practice of science. Notre Dame's James T. Cushing examines a selection of philosophical issues in the context of specific episodes in the development of physical theories and presents scientific advances within their historical and philosophical contexts. 133 line diagrams. 9 tables.
Preface Acknowledgments 1: Theory Construction and Selection 2: Formalism, Interpretation, and Understanding 3: Standard Quantum Theory 4: Bohm's Quantum Theory 5: Alternative Interpretations: An Illustration 6: Opposing Commitments, Opposing Schools 7: Competition and Forging Copenhagen 8: Early Attempts at Causal Theories: A Stillborn Program 9: The Fate of Bohm's Program 10: An Alternative Scenario? 11: Lessons Notes References Author Index...
From the beginning, the implications of quantum theory for our most general understanding of the world have been a matter of intense debate. Einstein argues that the theory had to be regarded as fundamentally incomplete. Its inability, for example, to predict the exact time of decay of a single radioactive atom had to be due to a failure of the theory and not due to a permanent inability on our part or a fundamental indeterminism in nature its...
