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Single Idea 17550

[filed under theme 14. Science / D. Explanation / 2. Types of Explanation / e. Lawlike explanations ]

Full Idea

When we represent a group of connections by a closed and coherent set of concepts, axioms, definitions and laws which in turn is represented by a mathematical scheme we have isolated and idealised them with the purpose of clarification.

Gist of Idea

We give a mathematical account of a system of natural connections in order to clarify them

Source

Werner Heisenberg (Physics and Philosophy [1958], 06)

Book Ref

Heisenberg,Werner: 'Physics and Philosophy' [Penguin 1989], p.95

A Reaction

Attacks on the regularity theory of laws, and the notion that explanation is by laws, tend to downplay this point - that obtaining clarity and precision is a sort of explanation, even if it fails to go deeper.

The 18 ideas from Werner Heisenberg

6552 You can only explain the qualities of large objects using entities which lack those qualities [Heisenberg]
17533 Radiation interference needs waves, but radiation photoelectric effects needs particles [Heisenberg]
17536 If it can't be expressed mathematically, it can't occur in nature? [Heisenberg]
17534 A 'probability wave' is a quantitative version of Aristotle's potential, a mid-way type of reality [Heisenberg]
17532 An atom's stability after collisions needs explaining (which Newton's mechanics can't do) [Heisenberg]
17537 Position is complementary to velocity or momentum, so the whole system is indeterminate [Heisenberg]
17538 Quantum theory does not introduce minds into atomic events [Heisenberg]
17544 Basic particles have a mathematical form, which is more important than their substance [Heisenberg]
17543 So-called 'empty' space is the carrier of geometry and kinematics [Heisenberg]
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]
17545 Quantum theory shows that exact science does not need dogmatic realism [Heisenberg]
17550 We give a mathematical account of a system of natural connections in order to clarify them [Heisenberg]
17548 Maxwell introduced real fields, which transferred forces from point to point [Heisenberg]
17549 Seven theories in science: mechanics, heat, electricity, quantum, particles, relativity, life [Heisenberg, by PG]
17552 In relativity the length of the 'present moment' is relative to distance from the observer [Heisenberg]
17551 It was formerly assumed that electromagnetic waves could not be a reality in themselves [Heisenberg]
17553 We can retain the idea of 'substance', as indestructible mass or energy [Heisenberg]