The Foundations of Spacetime Physics: Philosophical Perspectives

This book provides an up-to-date overview of the foundations of spacetime physics. It features original essays written by world-class experts in the physics and philosophy of spacetime.

The foundational questions regarding the origin and nature of spacetime are branching into new and exciting directions. These questions are not restricted to the quantum gravity program but also arise in the context of a well-established theory like general relativity. Against the background of these quick and diverse developments, this volume features a broad range of perspectives on spacetime. Part I focuses on the nature of spacetime in non-quantum theories, such as Newtonian mechanics and relativity. Part II explores some intriguing conceptual implications of developing a quantum theory of spacetime.

The Foundations of Spacetime Physics

Antonio Vassallo is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Warsaw University of Technology, Poland, where he coordinates the philosophy of physics research group. His recent publications include "Does General Relativity Highlight Necessary Connections in Nature?" (Synthese, 2021) and "Dependence Relations in General Relativity" (European Journal for Philosophy of Science, 2020).