This new edition of Conceptual Developments of 20th Century Field Theories explores the conceptual foundations and historical roots of fundamental field theories. It also uncovers the underlying issues, logic and dynamics in fundamental physics. In response to new advances in the field over the past twenty years, the sections on gauge theory and quantum field theory have been thoroughly revised and elaborated. The chapter on ontological synthesis and scientific realism has also been reconsidered, now suggesting a new approach that goes beyond structuralism and historicism. Providing an integrated picture of the physical world, it is a valuable resource for theoretical physicists and philosophers of science with an interest in the development of twentieth century mathematical physics. It also provides professional historians and sociologists of science with a basis for further historical, cultural and sociological analysis of the theories discussed.

An overview of the conceptual and historical foundations of fundamental field theories, including their underlying issues, logic and dynamics.

About the Author
Tian Cao is Professor of Philosophy at Boston University. He is a Research Fellow at Trinity College, University of Cambridge; Senior Smithsonian Institution Fellow; Visiting Fellow at All Souls College, University of Oxford; and Neugebauer Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton University. He is author of From Current Algebra to Quantum Chromodynamics (Ccambridge, 2010); and editor of Conceptual Foundations of Quantum Field Theory (Cambridge, 1999). His research interests include the philosophy and history of science, epistemology, metaphysics, social and political philosophy, with special interest in philosophical issues related to modernity and postmodernity.


Book Information
ISBN 9781108476072
Author Tian Yu Cao
Format Hardback
Page Count 458
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 1050g
Dimensions(mm) 252mm * 178mm * 26mm