Physics and our View of the World

Physics and our View of the World

by Jan Hilgevoord (Author)

Synopsis

One of the central questions of physics is whether or not a Theory of Everything is possible. Many physicists believe that such a theory might be attainable, a belief which has led to speculation that we might one day 'know the mind of God'. But what would be the philosophical implications of having a blueprint for the Universe? In this fascinating book, a group of distinguished physicists and philosophers examine not only the claims of modern physics, but also the impact these claims have on our view of the world. Based on talks given at the Third Erasmus Ascension Symposium in The Netherlands, the book contains contributions from John Barrow, Paul Davies, Dennis Dieks, Willem Drees, Paul Feyerabend, Bas van Fraassen, Mary Hesse, Gerard 't Hooft and Ernan McMullin. At a time when many people view science with deep suspicion, this book will be of great interest to anyone wishing to explore the complex relationships that exist between physics and philosophy, theology and ideology.

$8.75

Save:$48.34 (85%)

Quantity

1 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 316
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 03 Nov 1994

ISBN 10: 0521476801
ISBN 13: 9780521476805
Book Overview: An examination of the claims of modern physics, and their impact on our view of the world.

Media Reviews
'the articles are mostly extremely well written and make for enjoyable and stimulating reading. The style is straightforward and without scholarly pedantry and jargon; the writers let the big ideas speak for themselves.' Observatory
'This book has a brief bibliography and a useful index. It is a challenging text, to be recommended to the many who have enjoyed the struggle to follow Stephen Hawking through his Brief History of Time .' Charles Pereira, Tropical Agriculture Newsletter
...the essays...are unique in presenting the views of physicists and philosophers on an equal footing. J.C. Amato, Choice