Physics and Necessity: Rationalist Pursuits from the Cartesian Past to the Quantum Present
Rationalist Pursuits Cartesian Past Present: Physics and Necessity examines arguments that physical theories can be derived through reason, from Descartes' geometric account of the world to attempts to derive quantum mechanics from natural axioms. It also argues that principles such as measurability, causality, homogeneity, and correspondence can shape theories, while experience remains necessary to assess how nature behaves.
At a glance
- Traces rationalist efforts to derive physical theories, from Cartesian ideas to modern quantum mechanics.
- Discusses measurability, causality, homogeneity, and correspondence as criteria for making nature comprehensible.
- Argues that these principles may shape theories of idealized systems, while experience is still needed to assess their application.
Reference price: $95.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Connects historical arguments about reason and nature with contemporary questions in quantum theory.
- Offers a focused discussion of how conceptual criteria can influence the mathematical form of physical laws.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | July 22, 2014 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 400 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 019871288X |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0198712886 |
| Weight listed | 1.85 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9.9 x 6.4 x 1.1 inches |
What to know before buying
- The book's central argument is not that physics can be derived by reason alone. Its description emphasizes that experience is needed to determine how far nature meets particular criteria of comprehensibility.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in the history and philosophy of physics.
- Readers exploring rationalism, physical theory, and the conceptual foundations of quantum mechanics.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a step-by-step physics textbook or a purely empirical account of physical theories.
Frequently asked questions
What does Physics and Necessity cover?
It recounts attempts to derive physical theories through reason, from Descartes' geometric construction of the world to recent approaches to deriving quantum mechanics from natural axioms.
Does the book argue that experience is unnecessary?
No. Its description says experience is needed to determine how far nature is comprehensible in particular ways, even as rational criteria may help structure physical theories.
Who is this book suited to?
It is aimed at readers interested in the history and philosophy of physics, especially the relationship between rationalist arguments and the development of physical theory.
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