The World View of Contemporary Physics: Does It Need a New Metaphysics?

Kitchener, Richard F. (Editor)

ISBN 10: 0887067417 / ISBN 13: 9780887067419

Published by State Univ of New York Pr, Ithaca, New York, U.S.A., 1988

About this Item

A pristine, unread copy. No DJ, as issued.

Seller Inventory # 001968

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The World View of Contemporary Physics: Does It Need a New Metaphysics?
• Publisher: State Univ of New York Pr, Ithaca, New York, U.S.A.
• Publication Date: 1988
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0887067417
• ISBN 13: 9780887067419
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Fine+

About this title

Synopsis

Although early twentieth century physics produced two revolutionary new conceptions of the nature of the physical universe—relativity theory and quantum theory—more recent developments in the physical sciences have made it imperative for physicists to re-examine the older world view of physics and the assumptions upon which it was based. However, theorizing about the nature and status of reality has been the province of philosophers for centuries. Philosophers, trained in metaphysics, provided a different perspective for viewing and a unique method for solving some of these problems. Ideally, therefore, both philosophers and physicists should work together in dialogue fashion on this important issue.

These two groups come together for the first time in this book to examine the questions: What is the world view of contemporary physics? Does it need a new metaphysics? If so, what kind of metaphysics does it need? Internationally known scholars, including Ilya Prigogine and Fritjof Capra, who are recognized as experts in this interdisciplinary field, address such related topics as the nature of the mind, our place in society, and the nature of ethics.

About the Author

Richard F. Kitchener is Professor of Philosophy at Colorado State University.