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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
17 ideas
from 'Physics and Philosophy'
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]
|
17533
|
Radiation interference needs waves, but radiation photoelectric effects needs particles
[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]
|
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]
|
17543
|
So-called 'empty' space is the carrier of geometry and kinematics
[Heisenberg]
|
17545
|
Quantum theory shows that exact science does not need dogmatic realism
[Heisenberg]
|
17548
|
Maxwell introduced real fields, which transferred forces from point to point
[Heisenberg]
|
17550
|
We give a mathematical account of a system of natural connections in order to clarify them
[Heisenberg]
|
17549
|
Seven theories in science: mechanics, heat, electricity, quantum, particles, relativity, life
[Heisenberg, by PG]
|
17553
|
We can retain the idea of 'substance', as indestructible mass or energy
[Heisenberg]
|
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]
|