PHILOSOPHY OF PHYSICS

Relativistic Metaphysics

The course provides a first introduction to relativity theory and its metaphysical consequences. After some preliminary sessions devoted to the introduction of the mathematics and physics of relativistic spacetimes, we will focus on metaphysical questions. In particulr we will address if and to what extent relativity theory favors the so-called “four-dimensional metaphysics” according to which:

-there is a single fundamental four-dimensional manifold, spacetime, of which space and time are but derivative aspects;
-there is the entire spacetime and not only a proper part of it singled out as ‘the present’. As far as the physics is concerned there is no privileged time;
-material objects extends through time in basically the same way they exted through space, by having different parts at different regions. In this respect, they are literally extended in time and never wholly present at a single instant.

Acquistion of mathematical instruments that are indispensable to provide an infomed discussion of central metaphysical questions.

Capacity to evaluate the conceptual and metaphysical consequences of our best physical theries, our most accurate descriptions of the world.

Familiarity with contemporary debates in the methaphysics of science.

Formally, there are no pre-requisites. As far as possible, everything will be introduced in class. A certain familiarity with first order logic---e.g., a course in Logic 1---represents an advantage. A willingness to work at a certain level of abstraction and mathematical rigor is required. Attendance is highly recommended.

The following is a tentative program that is expected to change---also depending on students’ interests. A detailed schedule with all sessions will be uploaded on Moodle.

• From Classical to Relativistic Physics
• “Relativistic Paradoxes”
• Geometry of Relativistic Spacetimes
• Separatism (Space and Time) Vs Unitism (Spacetime)
• Reality of Time in Relativistic Spacetimes
• A-Theory vs B-Theories in Relativistic Spacetim
• Relativistic Persistence
• Relativistic Change
• Supersubstantivalism

Introductions:

Einstein, A. 1920. Relativity. The Special and the General Theory. Popular Exposition. London: Methuen & Co. Ltd

Bohm, D. 1965. The Special Theory of Relativity. London: Routledge.

Maudlin, T. 2012. Philosophy of Physics. Space and Time. Princeton: Princeton University Press.

Malament, D. 2009. Geometry and Spacetime. At: http://www.socsci.uci.edu/~dmalamen/courses/geometryspacetimedocs/GST.pdf


Texts:


Gilmore, C., Calosi, C. , Costa, D. (2016), “Relativity and Three Four-dimensionalisms”, Philosophy Compass 11(2), 102-120.

Gilmore, C. (2006), “Where in the relativistic world are we?”, Philosophical Perspectives 20, 199-236.

Gibson, I. & Pooley, O. (2006). “Relativistic persistence”. Philosophical Perspectives 20 (1):157–198.

Gödel, K. (1949), “A remark about the relationship between relativity theory and idealistic philosophy”, in Collected works, Vol. 1, OUP.

Lehmkuhl, D. (2018). “The Metaphysics of Super‐Substantivalism”. Noûs 52 (1): 24-46.

Putnam, H. 1967. Time and Physical Geometry, Journal of Philosophy, 64 (8): 240-247.

Schaffer, J. (2009). “Spacetime the one substance”. Philosophical Studies 145 (1):131 - 148.

The exam consists of a written paper on one of the topics of the course. The topic needs to be agreed in advance. Further references on such topic will be suggested. The paper should not exceed 3000 words. Students that submit the paper a month before the scheduled exam will be sent written comments on the draft in advance.

written

The lecturer has a duty to ensure that the rules regarding the authenticity and originality of exam tests and papers are respected. Therefore, if there is suspicion of irregular conduct, an additional assessment may be conducted, which could differ from the original exam description.

To pass the exam 18/30 is needed. 30L is the highest grade.

The course is structured around frontal lectures. However active participation (questions, discussion) is highly encouraged.