The Dome: An Unexpectedly Simple Failure of Determinism
Norton, John D. (2006) The Dome: An Unexpectedly Simple Failure of Determinism. In [2006] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 20th Biennial Mtg (Vancouver): PSA 2006 Symposia.
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Abstract
Because of the specific shape of the dome at its apex, Newton’s equations of motion tell us that a mass at rest at the apex can spontaneously be set into motion. It has been suggested that this indeterminism should be discounted since it draws on an incomplete rendering of Newtonian physics; or it is "unphysical"; or it employs illicit idealizations. I analyze and reject each of these reasons.
| Keywords: | Determinism Indeterminism Newtonian |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | Specific Sciences: Physics: Classical Physics General Issues: Models and Idealization General Issues: Causation General Issues: Determinism/Indeterminism |
| Conferences and Volumes: | [2006] Philosophy of Science Assoc. 20th Biennial Mtg (Vancouver): PSA 2006 Symposia |
| ID Code: | 2943 |
| Deposited By: | Norton, John |
| Deposited On: | 06 October 2006 |