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Full Idea
In the case of electron/positron/gamma ray annihilation scientists maintain the paradigm of rational explanation by inventing a quasi-substance as the bearer of continuity, and all three are seen in terms of 'energy'.
Gist of Idea
'Energy' is a quasi-substance invented as the bearer of change during interactions
Source
Harré,R./Madden,E.H. (Causal Powers [1975], 6.III)
Book Ref
Harré,R/Madden,E.H.: 'Causal Powers: A Theory of Natural Necessity' [Blackwell 1975], p.108
A Reaction
What a relief to see energy described as a 'quasi-substance'. I spent all of my physics studies bewildered by the nature of energy (especially when described as 'pure energy'). What does e=mc^2 mean if e is a quasi-substance?
20646 | Helmholtz used 'energy' to mathematically link heat, light, electricity and magnetism [Helmholtz, by Watson] |
20644 | Energy has progressed from a mere formula, to a principle pervading all nature [Kelvin] |
17540 | Energy is that which moves, and is the substance from which everything is made [Heisenberg] |
17541 | Energy is an unchanging substance, having many forms, and causing all change [Heisenberg] |
12674 | Energy is the key multi-valued property, vital to scientific realism [Ellis] |
15265 | 'Energy' is a quasi-substance invented as the bearer of change during interactions [Harré/Madden] |
15280 | 'Kinetic energy' is used to explain the effects of moving things when they are stopped [Harré/Madden] |
24162 | Planck introduced the idea that energy can be quantized [Baggott] |
21183 | Thermodynamics introduced work and entropy, to understand steam engine efficiency [Hesketh] |