Conceptual Developments of 20th Century Field Theories

by Cao, Tian Yu

• ISBN13: 9780521431781
• ISBN10: 0521431786
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1997-02-01
• Publisher: Cambridge Univ Pr

Summary

This volume provides a broad synthesis of conceptual developments of twentieth century field theories, from the general theory of relativity to quantum field theory and gauge theory. The book traces the foundations and evolution of these theories within a historio-critical context. Theoretical physicists and students of theoretical physics will find this a valuable account of the foundational problems of their discipline that will help them understand the internal logic and dynamics of theoretical physics. It will also provide professional historians and philosophers of science, particularly philosophers of physics, with a conceptual basis for further historical, cultural and sociological analysis of the theories discussed. Finally, the scientifically qualified general reader will find in this book a deeper analysis of contemporary conceptions of the physical world than can be found in popular accounts of the subject.

Table of Contents

Preface

1. Introduction

2. The rise of classical field theory

Part I. Geometrical Programme For Fundamental Interactions: 3. Einstein's route to gravitational field

4. General theory of relativity (GTR)

5. Geometrical programme (GP)

Part II. Quantum Field Programme For Fundamental Interactions: 6. The rise of quantum theory

7. Formation of conceptual foundations of quantum field theory

8. Quantum field programme (QFP)

Part III. Gauge Field Programme For Fundamental Interactions: 9. The route to gauge field

10. Formation of conceptual foundations of gauge field theory

11. Gauge field programme (GFP)

12. Ontological synthesis and scientific realism

Appendixes