Quantization as a Guide to Ontic Structure

Thébault, Karim P. Y. (2012): Quantization as a Guide to Ontic Structure.

Abstract

A framework is presented for the provision of a structural realist ontology as dictated by the implications of simultaneously accepting both inter-formulation and classical-quantum species of ‘metaphysical’ underdetermination. The example of non-relativistic particle mechanics is considered, and it is argued that, modulo certain mathematical ambiguities, a viable and consistent candidate structural ontology can be constituted in terms of a Lie algebra morphism between algebras of observables and the relationship between the corresponding state spaces.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Form of publication: Preprint
• Keywords: Structural Realism, Quantization, Underdetermination
• Faculties: Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy (MCMP); Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Religious Science > Munich Center for Mathematical Philosophy (MCMP) > Philosophy of Physics
• Subjects: 100 Philosophy and Psychology > 100 Philosophy
• Language: English