Year: 2011
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The thesis proposes, defends, and applies a new model of inter-theoretic reduction, \ncalled "Neo-Nagelian" reduction. There are numerous accounts of inter-theoretic \nreduction in the philosophy of science literature but the most well-known and \nwidely-discussed is the Nagelian one. In the thesis I identify various kinds of \nproblems which the Nagelian model faces. Whilst some of these can be resolved, \npressing ones remain. \nIn lieu of the Nagelian model, other models of inter-theoretic reduction have \nbeen proposed, chief amongst which are so-called "New Wave" models. I show \nthese to be no more adequate than the original Nagelian model. \nI propose a new model of inter-theoretic reduction, Neo-Nagelian reduction. \nThis model is structurally similar to the Nagelian one, but differs in substantive \nways. In particular I argue that it avoids the problems pertaining to both the \nNagelian and New Wave models. \nMultiple realizability looms large in discussions about reduction: it is claimed \nthat multiply realizable properties frustrate the reduction of one theory to another \nin various ways. I consider these arguments and show that they do not undermine \nthe Neo-Nagelian of reduction of one theory to another. \nFinally, I apply the model to statistical mechanics. Statistical mechanics is \ntaken to be a reductionist enterprise: one of the aims of statistical mechanics is to \nreduce thermodynamics. Without an adequate model of inter-theoretic reduction \none cannot assess whether it succeeds; I use the Neo-Nagelian model to critically \ndiscuss whether it does. Specifically, I consider two very recent derivations of \nthe Second Law of thermodynamics, one from Boltzmannian classical statistical \nmechanics and another from quantum statistical mechanics. I argue that they are \npartially successful, and that each makes for a promising line of future research.
Author: Foad Dizadji-Bahmani
Language: English
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1561985011