Role of Empiricism in Physics -- by Prof. Akira Kanda

Akira Kanda 

kanda@cs.toronto.edu

Omega Mahematical Institute

Abstract 

It has been commonly understood that physics is an amalgamation of mathematization and empiricism. The founder of physics, Newton, made it clear that the only way to observe physical system is to step out of the system and observe, as he said "I was standing on the shoulder of God." This view was seconded by Göte who said that it is impossible to make measurement inside the physical universe without changing the system to be observed. This problem became acute as we developed Relativity Theory and Quantum Mechanics. Due to the apparent success of modern physics, this important issue was pushed aside. Here we will reinvestigate this problem in modern context. "I know that most men, including those at ease with problems of the greatest complexity, can seldom accept even the simplest and most obvious truth if it be such as would oblige them to admit the falsity of conclusions which they have delighted in explaining to colleagues, which they have proudly taught to others, and which they have woven, thread by thread, into the fabric of their lives."

To download the article click on the link below:

https://www.academia.edu/35598468/Role_of_Empiricism_in_Physics_--_by_Prof._Akira_Kanda