Symmetry & Possibility: To Reduce or not Reduce?

Rickles, Dean (2004) Symmetry & Possibility: To Reduce or not Reduce?.

Abstract

In this paper I examine the connection between symmetry and modality from the perspective of `reduction' methods in geometric mechanics. I begin by setting the problem up as a choice between two opposing views: reduction and non-reduction. I then discern four views on the matter in the literature; they are distinguished by their advocation of distinct geometric spaces as representing `reality'. I come down in favour of non-reductive methods.