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Group Structural Realism

Roberts, Bryan W. (2010) Group Structural Realism. [Published Article]

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Abstract

We present a precise form of structural realism, called group structural realism, which identifies 'structure' in quantum theory with symmetry groups. However, working out the details of this view actually illuminates a major problem for structural realism; namely, a structure can itself have structure. This article argues that, once a precise characterization of structure is given, the 'metaphysical hierarchy' on which group structural realism rests is overly extravagant and ultimately unmotivated.

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Item Type: Published Article
Keywords: structural realism, group theory, quantum mechanics, realism
Subjects: Specific Sciences > Physics
Specific Sciences > Physics > Quantum Mechanics
General Issues > Realism/Anti-realism
General Issues > Theory Change
Depositing User: Bryan Roberts
Date Deposited: 16 Nov 2010 15:22
Last Modified: 16 Nov 2010 15:22
Item ID: 8398
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/bjps/axq009
URI: http://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/8398

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