| Unit name | Advanced Philosophy of Physics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PHILM0029 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Karim Thebault |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
N/A |
| Co-requisites |
N/A |
| School/department | Department of Philosophy |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This unit will examine a selection of conceptual issues in the foundations of physical theory with particular focus on the physics of the mid-to-late 20th century. We will grapple with the philosophical problems that lie at heat of the most advanced physical theories, and in doing so attempt to answer fundamental questions about symmetry, matter and the early universe.
The aim of this course is to explore metaphysical, methodological, epistemological and conceptual issues that arise in contemporary physics. We cover topics such as: the arrow of time in thermal physics; the interpretation of quantum field theory; emergence and universality in condensed matter physics; fine tuning problems and inflationary cosmology; spontaneous symmetry breaking and the Higgs mechanism; and time in quantum gravity.
By the end of the unit, students will be expected to be able to:
(1) Identify the key debates within the philosophy of contemporary physics and discuss and analyze these with the sophistication appropriate to level M/7.
(2) Critically assess arguments made in the relevant physics literature and philosophy of physics literature.
(3) Explain, in a written argument, the strengths and weaknesses of positions taken within these debates with a sophistication appropriate to level M/7.
(4) Communicate these arguments with clear, fluent writing with a sophistication appropriate to level M/7.
(5) Develop and demonstrate research skills with a sophistication appropriate to level M/7.
1-hour lecture + 1-hour seminar each week + essay tutorials
One essay of 5,000-6,000 words (excluding bibliography) designed to test ILOs (1)-(5).
Batterman, The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Physics​, OUP (2013)​
Butterfield and Earman, Philosophy of Physics Parts A & B. Elsevier (2006)
Rickles, The Ashgate Companion to Contemporary Philosophy of Physics. Ashgate (2008)
