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Dewar, Neil

Structure and equivalence / Neil Dewar. - Cambridge : Cambridge university press, 2022. - 74 p. ; 23 cm. - Cambridge elements Philosophy of Physics .

Includes bibliographical references.

Introduction
Definitions
Translation
Ramsey sentences
Categories of theories
Newtonian mechanics
Symmetry
Galilean spacetime
Conclusion

This Element examines what it means for two theories in physics to be equivalent (or not) and the insights that can be gained about their structure. It approaches the topic in two ways: First, it offers a comprehensive overview of the logical tools used in recent philosophy of physics to explore these questions, such as definition, translation, Ramsey sentences, and category theory. Second, it presents a detailed case study applying these concepts to understand the dynamical and spatiotemporal structure of Newtonian mechanics, particularly in relation to the symmetries of Newtonian theory. By synthesizing much of the exciting recent research on these subjects, this work will be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in these areas.

ISBN: 9781108823760

Subjects--Topical Terms:
Equivalence principle (Physics).
Physics - Philosophy.

Dewey Class. No.: 530.01 / DEW