Drawing from physics and philosophical debates, Ismael combines a set of essays on the time worn debate of symmetry from both fields.
Abstract
ix
Preface
xi
Acknowledgments
xiii
Introduction
1
(2)
Framework
3
(2)
Space-time Theories
5
(4)
Essays 1 and 2
9
(1)
Essays 3 and 4
10
(6)
Essay 5
16
(3)
Symmetry: an Elementary Introduction
19
(12)
Introduction
19
(1)
Geometric Symmetries
19
(4)
Finite Groups in One and Two Dimensions
23
(4)
Recap and Generalization
27
(4)
Curie's Principle
31
(26)
Introduction
31
(1)
The Principle
32
(2)
The Proof
34
(3)
Interpretation of the Principle
37
(2)
How Could One Doubt the Principle?
39
(3)
The Principle in Indeterministic Contexts
42
(3)
Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking
45
(2)
The Principle and Hidden Variables
47
(2)
Exegetical Support
49
(3)
Is the Principle Trivial?
52
(1)
Conclusion
53
(4)
Geometric Transformations
54
(3)
Reflection in Space
57
(26)
The Interdefinability of Symmetry, Similarity, and Intrinsic Properties
57
(2)
Enantiomorphs
59
(3)
Kant, Remnant, Earman, and Nerlich
62
(8)
A Better Argument
70
(4)
Symmetry as a Constraint on Meaning
74
(2)
Parity Violation
76
(7)
Reflection in Time
83
(22)
Introduction
83
(1)
Distinction between Laws and Initial Conditions
84
(1)
Relation between the Asymmetries of the Laws and the Asymmetries of Initial Conditions
85
(2)
Initial Conditions
87
(1)
Reflection in Space
88
(3)
Reflection in Time and Thermodynamics
91
(14)
Science and Symmetry
105
(92)
Introduction
105
(1)
Structure of Theories
106
(12)
Observable/Unobservable Distinction
118
(16)
Content of Theories: Interpretation
134
(10)
Why do we Discriminate between Empirically Equivalent Theories?
144
(16)
How do we Discriminate between Empirically Equivalent Theories?
160
(21)
Properties
181
(16)
Bibliography
197
(6)
Index
203
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