Laws of Nature
Edition: 1 edition
Publisher: Springer
Published: August 22, 2005
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 376
ISBN-13: 9783540240792
Subjects: Mathematics and Science; Physics; Logic; Science; Philosophy; Science/Mathematics; Quantum Theory; General; Causality Principle; Invariance Principle; Laws of Physics; Science / Philosophy & Social Aspects; Law; Natural law
Description: The book is concerned with the laws of nature and in particular with the laws of physics. The authors discuss three important questions: First, whether the observed regularities are based on strict "laws of nature" that hold rigorously and without any exception. Second, what we call a "law of nature" is studied by comparing this concept with invariance principles, causality principles, teleological principles and means of predicting future events. Finally, on the basis of these investigations the authors treat the ambitious and intricate third question, why the laws of nature hold. Are there rational reasons for this largely unexplained phenomenon? This book addresses students as well as researchers. It will be an excellent reference for those interested in the philosophical foundations of the natural sciences.