Single Idea 16275

[catalogued under 7. Existence / C. Structure of Existence / 5. Supervenience / d. Humean supervenience]

Full Idea

The 'spinning disc' is not metaphysically possible. We have every reason to believe that there is no such thing as 'perfectly homogeneous matter'. The atomic theory of matter is as well established as any scientific theory is likely to be.

Gist of Idea

The 'spinning disc' is just impossible, because there cannot be 'homogeneous matter'

Source

Tim Maudlin (The Metaphysics within Physics [2007], 7 Epilogue)

Book Reference

Maudlin,Tim: 'The Metaphysics within Physics' [OUP 2007], p.185


A Reaction

This is a key case for Maudlin, and his contempt for metaphysics which is not scientifically informed. I agree with him. Extreme thought experiments are worth considering, but impossible ones are pointless.

Related Idea

Idea 16211 A homogeneous rotating disc should be undetectable according to Humean supervenience [Hawley]