A Minimalist Ontology of the Natural World
Exploring the Foundations of Physical Reality
Michael Esfeld author Dirk-Andre Deckert author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Published:14th Aug '20
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This paperback is available in another edition too:
- Hardback£135.00(9781138307308)
This book outlines a minimalist ontology of the natural world, focusing on two axioms that inform our understanding of physical reality.
This book proposes an ontology of the natural world defined by two fundamental axioms: (1) there are distance relations that individuate simple objects, specifically matter points, and (2) these matter points are permanent, with the distances between them subject to change. By establishing these basic principles, the author aims to create a coherent framework that aligns with contemporary physical theories.
The text delves into the commitments necessary to develop an ontology that accurately reflects established scientific concepts. The minimalist approach emphasizes simplicity and clarity, allowing for a representation of changing distance relations that is both straightforward and informative. Throughout the book, philosophical and mathematical perspectives are integrated, providing a comprehensive understanding of classical mechanics, quantum field theory, and relativistic physics through this proposed ontology.
In addition to the primary objectives, the book also seeks to achieve several subsidiary aims. These include advocating for a holistic approach to the individuation of basic objects, introducing a new version of Humeanism termed Super-Humeanism, proposing an ontology of quantum physics that circumvents the dualism of particles and fields, and supporting a relationalist ontology based on point objects within the realm of relativistic physics. Overall, A Minimalist Ontology of the Natural World offers a thought-provoking exploration of the fundamental nature of reality.
"This book is an extremely welcome presentation of a minimalist metaphysics, systematically worked out in great detail and carefully tied to novel work in the foundations of physics . . . Humeans owe Esfeld and Deckert a great debt for pursuing in such detail a position that answers so many of their challenges." – George Darby, Durham University, UK
"There is much to admire in this book. As a rigorous and systematic physics-oriented presentation of an austere empiricist fundamental metaphysics, it has no real rivals. The clarity with which the overall vision is presented will provide a valuable stalking-horse for those who would defend less austere approaches in the future. Esfeld and Deckert never shy away from the radical consequences of their approach or try to disguise its revisionary nature." – Alastair Wilson, University of Birmingham, UK
"Unquestionably, this book is highly original, thought provoking, and sure to open up many new research venues. It wets the appetite for more, which we have every reason to believe will follow from the authors." - Anna Marmodoro, University of Oxford, UK
"The book is definitely to be recommended to all those interested in metaphysical questions concerning objects, properties, identity, space, and time, and/or in the interpretation of contemporary physics. Both advanced students and researchers working in metaphysics and the philosophy of physics are likely to benefit from reading it, if only because in doing so, whether or not they agree with the authors, they will be forced to think carefully about many fascinating issues concerning the ultimate nature of physical reality." – Matteo Morganti in the British Journal for the Philosophy of Science Review of Books
ISBN: 9780367594121
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 280g
182 pages