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Philosophy of physics

This course is designed for students with an interest in physics, and deals with central problems in the philosophy of physics.

Registration

Before the start of the course, an email is sent out to all admitted students, with information and instructions. Admitted students are expected to register themselves (web registration).
 

  • Course structure

    More about the course content

    The following areas are covered: the experimental method in physics and its philosophical basis; classical mechanics as a paradigm for thinking in physics; the philosophical debate about microphysical objects; the special theory of relativity and the philosophical implications of quantum mechanics; the fundamental debate about alternative interpretations of quantum mechanics; the philosophy of space and time; the philosophical relevance of contemporary theories of high-energy physics and cosmology. Participants should be prepared to deal with a certain amount of mathematical formalism. The lectures avoid technical details whenever possible and are accessible to anyone with a knowledge of physics at the level of a science oriented high school diploma. 

    Learning platform: Reading instructions, detailed course planning, etc. will be posted on the course's Athena page. Admitted students who have activated their student account and have been registered on the course automatically become participants on the course's Athena page. 

    Teacher autumn semester 2024: Guilherme Franzmann.

    Form of teaching: The teaching will be conducted in the form of lectures and discussions. 

    Expected learning outcomes, as well as information about the grading scale: See the syllabus. 

    Grading criteria: Found on the course's Athena page at the start of the course. 
     

    Assessment

    Examination autumn 2024: The course is examined by a viva (oral exam).

    More detailed information about the exams are provided by the teacher at the start of the course.

     

  • Schedule

    The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.

  • Course literature

  • Course reports

  • Contact

    Student office

    Director of studies: Mattias Högström mattias.hogstrom@philosophy.su.se

    Study councelling studievagledning@philosophy.su.se

    Teacher autumn 2024:

    Guilherme Franzmann guilherme.franzmann@philosophy.su.se

     

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