Physical Perspectives on Computation, Computational Perspectives on Physics

Although computation and the science of physical systems would appear to be unrelated, there are a number of ways in which computational and physical concepts can be brought together in ways that illuminate both. This volume examines fundamental questions which connect scholars from both disciplines: is the universe a computer? Can a universal computing machine simulate every physical process? What is the source of the computational power of quantum computers? Are computational approaches to solving physical problems and paradoxes always fruitful? Contributors from multiple perspectives reflecting the diversity of thought regarding these interconnections address many of the most important developments and debates within this exciting area of research. Both a reference to the state of the art and a valuable and accessible entry to interdisciplinary work, the volume will interest researchers and students working in physics, computer science, and philosophy of science and mathematics.

Michael E. Cuffaro is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow of the Rotman Institute of Philosophy at the University of Western Ontario and an external member of the Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy at LMU Munich. His research has appeared in such journals as The British Journal for the Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Science, Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics, History of Philosophy Quarterly, and Politics, Philosophy and Economics.

Samuel C. Fletcher is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, a resident fellow of the Minnesota Center for Philosophy of Science, and an external member of the Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy at LMU Munich. His research has appeared in such journals as The British Journal for the Philosophy of Science, European Journal for Philosophy of Science, and Foundations of Physics.