The Investigation of the Physical World - Hardcover

Di Francia, Giuliano Toraldo

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521233380 ISBN 13: 9780521233385

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1981

Synopsis

Originally published in Italian in 1976, this book describes the methods scientists use to investigate the physical world. It is ideal for students and teachers of science and the philosophy of science. It is both a high-level popularization and a critical appraisal of these methods, describing important advances in physics and analyzing the historical development, value, reliability and philosophical implications of the way physicists approach the problems confronting them. The introductory chapter on the meaning of physical theories and the mathematical tools used to develop them is followed by a general discussion on the foundations of physics under four major headings: the physics of the reversible, the physics of the irreversible, microphysics, and cosmology. Throughout, the subject matter of physical theories is linked to discussion of the attendant philosophical and epistemological implications, such as the validity of the theories, inductive inference, causal explanation, probability, the role of observation and the reality of physical objects.

About this title

Book Description:

This book describes the methods scientists use to investigate the physical world. It is both a high-level popularization and a critical appraisal of these methods, describing advances in physics and analyzing the historical development, value, reliability and philosophical implications of the way physicists approach the problems confronting them.

Language Notes:

Text: English, Italian (translation)

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1981
• ISBN 10: 0521233380
• ISBN 13: 9780521233385
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 480