Philosophy of Physics Seminar

Abstract: I revisit the distinction between 'interpretationalism' and 'motivationalism', which was elaborated in the context of physical symmetries by Møller-Nielsen (2017) and in the context of physical dualities by Read and Møller-Nielsen (2020a). I identify two key axes of refinement which have been proffered in the literature in intervening years, and use both of these axes to resolve a more fine-grained space of possible views in this debate. In addition, I address some critical interventions in this debate which have also arisen in recent years. Overall, my goal is to provide a helpful lay-of-the-land for those wishing to enter this literature, while making some novel remarks and arguments along the way.

After the seminar we will head to a local hostelry to continue the discussion. Following that we will have dinner with the speaker. If you’d like to join for dinner, please let me know by midday on Wednesday (tomorrow).

Here is a Teams link for those who would like to join online:

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/3648988066542993?p=cpxzH0cGgNMSNdbMyv

Registration: If you do not hold a university card, please contact the seminar convenor or admin@philosophy.ox.ac.uk at least two working days before a seminar to register your attendance.

_{Philosophy of Physics Seminar Convenor: Chris Timpson  | Philosophy of Physics Group Website}