2024-03-29T15:29:35Z
http:///cgi/oai2
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:115
2010-10-07T15:10:02Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/115/
Logic and Entropy
Shenker, Orly R.
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
A remarkable thesis prevails in the physics of information, saying that the logical properties of operations that are carried out by computers determine their physical properties. More specifically, it says that logically irreversible operations are dissipative by klog2 per bit of lost information. (A function is logically irreversible if its input cannot be recovered from its output. An operation is dissipative if it turns useful forms of energy into useless ones, such as heat energy.) This is Landauer's dissipation thesis, hereafter LDT. LDT underlies and motivates numerous researches in physics and computer science. Nevertheless, this paper shows that is it plainly wrong. This conclusion is based on a detailed study of LDT in terms of the various notions of entropy used in main stream statistical mechanics. It is supported by a counter example for LDT. Further support is found in an analysis of the phase space representation on which LDT relies. This analysis emphasises the constraints placed on the choice of probability distribution by the fact that it has to be the basis for calculating phase averages corresponding to thermodynamic properties of individual systems. An alternative representation is offered, in which logical irreversibility has nothing to do with dissipation. The strong connection between logic and physics, that LDT implies, is thereby broken off.
2000-06
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/115/1/Shenker_Logic_and_Entropy.doc
Shenker, Orly R. (2000) Logic and Entropy. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:151
2010-10-07T15:10:05Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/151/
Interventionism in Statistical Mechanics: Some Philosophical Remarks
Shenker, Orly R.
Explanation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Interventionism is an approach to the foundations of statistical mechanics which says that to explain and predict some of the thermodynamic phenomena we need to take into account the inescapable effect of environmental perturbations on the system of interest, in addition to the system's internal dynamics. The literature on interventionism suffers from a curious dual attitude: the approach is often mentioned as a possible framework for understanding statistical mechanics, only to be quickly and decidedly dismissed. The present paper is an attempt to understand this attraction-repulsion story. It offers a version of interventionism that appears to be defensible, and shows that this version can meet the main objections raised against it. It then investigates some of the philosophical ideas underlying interventionism, and proposes that these may be the source of the resentment interventionism encounters. This paves the way to see some features and consequences of interventionism, often taken to be shortcomings, as philosophically advantageous.
2000-06
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/151/1/Shenker_Interventionism.doc
Shenker, Orly R. (2000) Interventionism in Statistical Mechanics: Some Philosophical Remarks. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:174
2010-10-07T15:10:07Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/174/
Theory Reduction: the case of the kinetic theory of gases
Uchii, Soshichi
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
It is often said that the kinetic theory of gases is one of the best examples of the reduction of one theory into another; that is, the classical theory of thermodynamics [or to be more exact, a significant portion of it] is alleged to be reduced to the kinetic theory, which is based on the Newtonian mechanics and the atomistic view of the matter. But what is the nature of this alleged "reduction"? If you want to know the right answer to this, the best way is to examine the historical development of the kinetic theory. The kinetic theory is a theoretical attempt to explain the nature of gases and heat processes, in general, in terms of the movements of numerous molecules constituting a gas. Its major advocates were James Clerk Maxwell (1831-79) and Ludwig Boltzmann (1844-1906); in the course of their work on the kinetic theory, they had to struggle with several conceptual problems, as well as with many empirical problems, and these conceptual problems have something to do with our question of theory reduction. And you will see that these problems center on the concept of probability. Drawing on Dr. Shin'ichiro Tomonaga's examination, I will argue that their case was not a reduction to, but an extension of, the Newtonian mechanics.
1999
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
text/html
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/174/1/_reductionT.html
Uchii, Soshichi (1999) Theory Reduction: the case of the kinetic theory of gases. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:196
2010-10-07T15:10:09Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:636175736174696F6E
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/196/
The Subtleties of Entanglement and its Role in Quantum Information Theory
Clifton, Rob
Causation
Explanation
Quantum Mechanics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
My aim in this paper is a modest one. I do not have any particular thesis to advance about the nature of entanglement, nor can I claim novelty for any of the material I shall discuss. My aim is simply to raise some questions about entanglement that spring naturally from certain developments in quantum information theory and are, I believe, worthy of serious consideration by philosophers of science. The main topics I discuss are different manifestations of quantum nonlocality, entanglement-assisted communication, and entanglement thermodynamics.
2001-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/196/1/PSAPaper2000%21.pdf
Clifton, Rob (2001) The Subtleties of Entanglement and its Role in Quantum Information Theory. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:217
2010-10-07T15:10:12Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/217/
The Origins of Time-asymmetry in Thermodynamics: The Minus First Law
Brown, Harvey R
Uffink, Jos
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper investigates what the source of time-asymmetry is in thermodynamics, and comments on the question whether a time-symmetric formulation of the Second Law is possible.
2001-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/217/1/Time-asymmetry.pdf
Brown, Harvey R and Uffink, Jos (2001) The Origins of Time-asymmetry in Thermodynamics: The Minus First Law. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:230
2010-10-07T15:10:14Z
7374617475733D696E7072657373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/230/
Maxwell's Demon and the Thermodynamics of Computation
Bub, Jeffrey
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
It is generally accepted, following Landauer and Bennett, that the process of measurement involves no minimum entropy cost, but the erasure of information in resetting the memory register of a computer to zero requires dissipating heat into the environment. This thesis has been challenged recently in a two-part article by Earman and Norton. I review some relevant observations in the thermodynamics of computation and argue that Earman and Norton are mistaken: there is in principle no entropy cost to the acquisition of information, but the destruction of information does involve an irreducible entropy cost.
2000-06
Other
PeerReviewed
tex-latex
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/230/1/Maxwellsdemon.tex
Bub, Jeffrey (2000) Maxwell's Demon and the Thermodynamics of Computation. UNSPECIFIED. (In Press)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:289
2010-10-07T15:10:18Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/289/
Taking Thermodynamics Too Seriously
Callender, Craig
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper discusses the mistake of understanding the laws and concepts of thermodynamics too literally in the foundations of statistical mechanics. Arguing that this error is still pervasive (though slightly more subtle than before), we explore its consequences in three cases: explaining the Second Law, understanding equilibrium and defining phase transitions.
2001-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/289/1/TAKING_THERMODYNAMICS_%28TOO%29_SERIOUSLY.doc
Callender, Craig (2001) Taking Thermodynamics Too Seriously. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:313
2010-10-07T15:10:19Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/313/
Bluff your Way in the Second Law of Thermodynamics
Uffink, Jos
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The aim of this article is to analyse the relation between the second law of thermodynamics and the so-called arrow of time. For this purpose, a number of different aspects in this arrow of time are distinguished, in particular those of time-(a)symmetry and of (ir)reversibility. Next I review versions of the second law in the work of Carnot, Clausius, Kelvin, Planck, Gibbs, Carath\'eodory and Lieb and Yngvason, and investigate their connection with these aspects of the arrow of time. It is shown that this connection varies a great deal along with these formulations of the second law. According to the famous formulation by Planck, the second law expresses the irreversibility of natural processes. But in many other formulations irreversibility or even time-asymmetry plays no role. I therefore argue for the view that the second law has nothing to do with the arrow of time
2001
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/313/1/engtot.pdf
Uffink, Jos (2001) Bluff your Way in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:365
2010-10-07T15:10:23Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6177732D6F662D6E6174757265
7375626A656374733D67656E:6D6F64656C732D616E642D696465616C697A6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:7374727563747572652D6F662D7468656F72696573
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/365/
Approximations, Idealizations, and Models in Statistical Mechanics
Liu, Chuang
Laws of Nature
Models and Idealization
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Structure of Theories
In this paper, a criticism of the traditional theories of approximation and idealization is given. After identifying the real purpose and measure of idealization in the practice of science, it is argued that the best way to characterize idealization is not to formulate a logical model -- something analogous to Hempel's D-N model for explanation -- but to study its different guises in the praxis of science. A case study of it is then made in thermostatistical physics. After a brief sketch of the theories for phase transitions and critical phenomena, I examine the various idealizations that go into the making of models at three difference levels.
2001-07
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/365/1/idealising.mss.pitt.pdf
Liu, Chuang (2001) Approximations, Idealizations, and Models in Statistical Mechanics. UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:367
2010-10-07T15:10:23Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/367/
Ergodic Theory, Interpretations of Probability and the Foundations of Statistical Mechanics
van Lith, Janneke
Probability/Statistics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The traditional use of ergodic theory in the foundations of equilibrium statistical mechanics is that it provides a link between thermodynamic observables and microcanonical probabilities. First of all, the ergodic theorem demonstrates the equality of microcanonical phase averages and infinite time averages (albeit for a special class of systems, and up to a measure zero set of exceptions). Secondly, one argues that actual measurements of thermodynamic quantities yield time averaged quantities, since measurements take a long time. The combination of these two points is held to be an explanation why calculating microcanonical phase averages is a successful algorithm for predicting the values of thermodynamic observables. It is also well-known that this account is problematic. <P> This survey intends to show that ergodic theory nevertheless may have important roles to play, and it explores three other uses of ergodic theory. Particular attention is paid, firstly, to the relevance of specific interpretations of probability, and secondly, to the way in which the concern with systems in thermal equilibrium is translated into probabilistic language. With respect to the latter point, it is argued that equilibrium should not be represented as a stationary probability distribution as is standardly done; instead, a weaker definition is presented.
2001
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/367/1/ergodic.ps
van Lith, Janneke (2001) Ergodic Theory, Interpretations of Probability and the Foundations of Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:410
2010-10-07T15:10:29Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/410/
Implications of quantum theory in the foundations of statistical mechanics
Wallace, David
Quantum Mechanics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
An investigation is made into how the foundations of statistical mechanics are affected once we treat classical mechanics as an approximation to quantum mechanics in certain domains rather than as a theory in its own right; this is necessary if we are to understand statistical-mechanical systems in our own world. Relevant structural and dynamical differences are identified between classical and quantum mechanics (partly through analysis of technical work on quantum chaos by other authors). These imply that quantum mechanics significantly affects a number of foundational questions, including the nature of statistical probability and the direction of time.
2001-08
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/410/1/wallace.pdf
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/410/2/wallace.ps
tex-latex
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/410/3/wallace.tex
Wallace, David (2001) Implications of quantum theory in the foundations of statistical mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:414
2010-10-07T15:10:29Z
7374617475733D707562
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/414/
Space-Time and Probability
Saunders, Simon
Probability/Statistics
Relativity Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
Special relativity is most naturally formulated as a theory of spacetime geometry, but within the spacetime framework probability appears to be a purely epistemic notion. It is possible that progress can be made with rather different approaches - covariant stochastic equations, in particular - but the results to date are not encouraging. However, it seems a non-epistemic notion of probability can be made out in Minkowski space on Everett's terms. I shall work throughout with the consistent histories formalism. I shall start with a conservative interpretation, and then go on to Everett's
2000
Other
PeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/414/1/naples.pdf
Saunders, Simon (2000) Space-Time and Probability. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:436
2010-10-07T15:10:30Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/436/
Semigroups and Symmetry: an investigation of Prigogine's theories
Edens, Bram
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
It has been claimed that Ilya Prigogine's theories constitute a paradigm shift unheard of since the impact of Newton. The shift would consist in Prigogine's specific approach towards the problem of time's arrow i.e. how to reconcile the observed macroscopic time asymmetry with the underlying fundamental microscopic time symmetrical laws. Whereas well known approaches as coarse-graining or interventionism are based upon external considerations, Prigogine's proposal, reminiscent of the early Boltzmann, is instead to derive irreversibility due to the dynamics of a system alone. Physics should no longer treat time as a mere parameter, but has to be united with our asymmetrical experience of time. In this paper I discuss whether Prigogine succeeds in deriving intrinsic irreversibility. After an introduction to Prigoginian thinking, I propose my main heuristic in assessing Prigogine's scientific work called symmetry breaking and semigroup selection. I clarify this heuristic by discussing the Kac ring model. Finally, in a chronological order, I distinguish between several approaches in Prigogine's work and discuss each of them briefly. I arge that Prigogine's attempt fails.
2001-08
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/436/1/script.ps
Edens, Bram (2001) Semigroups and Symmetry: an investigation of Prigogine's theories. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:465
2010-10-07T15:10:33Z
7374617475733D707562
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/465/
Time, Quantum Mechanics, and Probability
Saunders, Simon
Probability/Statistics
Quantum Mechanics
Relativity Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The Everett interpretation of quantum mechanics has repeatedly been criticized on the grounds that probabilty makes no sense on its terms. These criticisms are considered in detail, and found to be wanting. I conclude that on the contrary the Everett interpretation provides a clear account of probability, and that its most radical feature, that it abandons a 1:1 relationship of identity over time, already has to be dealt with in classical physics.
1997
Other
PeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/465/1/Part3uj%28S%29.pdf
Saunders, Simon (1997) Time, Quantum Mechanics, and Probability. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:563
2010-10-07T15:10:42Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6669656C642D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/563/
The Meaning of Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking (I): From a simple classical model
Liu, Chuang
Classical Physics
Physics
Quantum Field Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper, part I of a two-part project, aims at answering the simple question 'what is spontaneous symmetry breaking?' by analyzing from a philosophical perspective a simple classical model. Related questions include: what does it mean to break a symmetry spontaneously? Is the breaking causal, or is the symmetry not broken but merely hidden? Is the meta-principle, 'no asymmetry in, no asymmetry out,' violated? And what is the role in this of random perturbations (or fluctuations)?
2002-01
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/563/1/SSB.pittarchive.mss.pdf
Liu, Chuang (2002) The Meaning of Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking (I): From a simple classical model. UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:624
2010-10-07T15:10:48Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:636175736174696F6E
7375626A656374733D67656E:64657465726D696E69736D2D696E64657465726D696E69736D
7375626A656374733D67656E:686973746F72792D6F662D7068696C6F736F7068792D6F662D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6F676963616C2D706F736974697669736D2D656D706972696369736D
7375626A656374733D67656E:7068696C6F736F70686572732D6F662D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/624/
Vienna Indeterminism II: From Exner's Synthesis to Frank and von Mises
Michael, Stöltzner
Causation
Determinism/Indeterminism
History of Philosophy of Science
Logical Positivism/Logical Empiricism
Philosophers of Science
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper continues an earlier investigation into the philosophical tradition of Vienna Indeterminism until the formation of the Vienna Circle in 1929. It focuses in particular on how Philipp Frank and Richard von Mises were able to contemplate genuine indeterminism in physics before the advent of quantum mechanics. On this account, all apparently deterministic laws could well be the macroscopic limit of indeterministic basic laws valid for the single mirco-events. Philosophically Vienna Indeterminism was launched by Mach's redefinition of causality in terms of functional dependencies. This severed the rigid bond between causality and empirical realism characteristic of the Kantian conception and made possible to adjust the ontology according to the needs of a single theory. The debates between Max Planck and Franz Serafin Exner teach that the indeterminism issue was also a struggle about Boltzmann's philosophical legacy between Vienna and Berlin. Quite in line with Mach's firm empiricism, Vienna Indeterminists rejected any final decision between determinism and indeterminism on the metaphysical level. Once the frequency interpretation had won favor, the empiricist stance, moreover, permitted them to consider mass phenomena as generic observational facts coordinated to statistical collectives and to treat them on a par with moving point particles. The only condition imposed on this ontology was the uniqueness of this coordination, a condition that could be viewed as a late heir of Mach's principle of unique determination which had complemented his relational ontology.
2002-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/624/1/FIRENZP4.doc
Michael, Stöltzner (2002) Vienna Indeterminism II: From Exner's Synthesis to Frank and von Mises. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:660
2010-10-07T15:20:26Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:664
2010-10-07T15:10:54Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6669656C642D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/664/
Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking (II): Variations in Complex Models
Liu, Chuang
Classical Physics
Quantum Field Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper, part II of a two-part project, continues to explore the meaning of spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) by applying and expanding the general notion we obtained in part I to some more complex and, from the physics point of view, more important models (in condensed matter physics and in quantum field theories).
2002-06
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/664/1/SSBII.mss.pdf
Liu, Chuang (2002) Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking (II): Variations in Complex Models. UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:711
2010-10-07T15:10:57Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:6669656C64732D616E642D7061727469636C6573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6669656C642D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/711/
Quarticles and the Identity of Indiscernibles
Huggett, Nick
Fields and Particles
Quantum Field Theory
Quantum Mechanics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
A number of commentators (especially French and Redhead, 1988, and Butterfield, 1993) have investigated the status of the principle of the identity of indiscernibles (PII) for bosons and fermions. In this paper I extend that investigation to the full range of quantum particles of any allowed kind of statistics -- `quarticles', that is. I show that for any kind (except bosons and fermions) there are states in which PII is violated by every pair of particles, some pairs and not others, and by no pairs.
2002-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/711/1/oxfordpreprint.pdf
Huggett, Nick (2002) Quarticles and the Identity of Indiscernibles. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:789
2010-10-07T15:11:03Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/789/
Essay Review: Probability in Classical Statistical Physics
van Lith, Janneke
Probability/Statistics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Review article of Y.M. Guttmann, <EM>The Concept of Probability in Statistical Physics</EM>, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999
2001
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/789/1/guttmann.pdf
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/789/2/guttmann.ps
van Lith, Janneke (2001) Essay Review: Probability in Classical Statistical Physics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:881
2010-10-07T15:11:13Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/881/
Quantum Decoherence and the Approach to Equilibrium (Part 1)
Shenker, Orly R.
Hemmo, Meir
Quantum Mechanics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
We discuss a recent proposal by Albert (1994a,b; 2000, Chapter 7) to recover thermodynamics on a purely dynamical basis, using the quantum theory of the collapse of the wave function of Ghirardi, Rimini and Weber (1986). We propose an alternative way to explain thermodynamics within no-collapse interpretations of quantum mechanics. Our approach relies on the standard quantum mechanical models of environmental decoherence of open systems, \eg Joos and Zeh (1985) and Zurek and Paz (1994). This paper presents the two approaches and discusses their advantages. The problems they face will be discussed in a sequel (Hemmo and Shenker 2002b).
2001
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
tex-latex
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/881/1/DecoEquilibrium_1.final.tex
Shenker, Orly R. and Hemmo, Meir (2001) Quantum Decoherence and the Approach to Equilibrium (Part 1). [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:882
2010-10-07T15:20:44Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:941
2017-05-31T00:37:54Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636F736D6F6C6F6779
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6177732D6F662D6E6174757265
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/941/
The Thermodynamical Arrow of Time: Reinterpreting the Boltzmann-Schuetz Argument
Cirkovic, Milan M.
Cosmology
Laws of Nature
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The recent surge of interest in the origin of the temporal asymmetry of thermodynamical systems (including the accessible part of the universe itself) put forward two possible explanatory approaches to this age-old problem. Hereby we show that there is a third possible alternative, based on the generalization of the classical (``Boltzmann-Schuetz'') anthropic fluctuation picture of the origin of the perceived entropy gradient. This alternative (which we dub the Acausal-Anthropic approach) is based on accepting Boltzmann's statistical measure at its face value, and accomodating it within the quantum cosmological concept of the multiverse. We argue that conventional objections raised against the Boltzmann-Schuetz view are less forceful and serious than it is usually assumed. A fortiori, they are incapable of rendering the generalized theory untenable. On the contrary, this analysis highlights some of the other advantages of the multiverse approach to the thermodynamical arrow of time.
2002-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
tex-latex
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/941/1/Boltzmann_final5.tex
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/941/2/Boltzmann_final5.ps
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/941/3/Boltzmann_final5.pdf
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/941/4/Boltzmann_final5.doc
Cirkovic, Milan M. (2002) The Thermodynamical Arrow of Time: Reinterpreting the Boltzmann-Schuetz Argument. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1001
2010-10-07T15:20:47Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1119
2010-10-07T15:11:44Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1119/
What Is a Macrostate? Subjective Observations and Objective Dynamics
Shalizi, Cosma Rohilla
Moore, Cristopher
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
We consider the question of whether thermodynamic macrostates are objective consequences of dynamics, or subjective reflections of our ignorance of a physical system. We argue that they are both; more specifically, that the set of macrostates forms the unique maximal partition of phase space which 1) is consistent with our observations (a subjective fact about our ability to observe the system) and 2) obeys a Markov process (an objective fact about the system's dynamics). We review the ideas of computational mechanics, an information-theoretic method for finding optimal causal models of stochastic processes, and argue that macrostates coincide with the ``causal states'' of computational mechanics. Defining a set of macrostates thus consists of an inductive process where we start with a given set of observables, and then refine our partition of phase space until we reach a set of states which predict their own future, i.e. which are Markovian. Macrostates arrived at in this way are provably optimal statistical predictors of the future values of our observables.
2003-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1119/1/whats-macro.pdf
Shalizi, Cosma Rohilla and Moore, Cristopher (2003) What Is a Macrostate? Subjective Observations and Objective Dynamics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1147
2010-10-07T15:20:48Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1155
2010-10-07T15:11:46Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1155/
Brussels-Austin Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics in the Early Years: Similarity Transformations between Deterministic and Probabilistic Descriptions
Bishop, Robert
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The fundamental problem on which Ilya Prigogine and the Brussels-Austin Group have focused can be stated briefly as follows. Our observations indicate that there is an arrow of time in our experience of the world (e.g., decay of unstable radioactive atoms like Uranium, or the mixing of cream in coffee). Most of the fundamental equations of physics are time reversible, however, presenting an apparent conflict between our theoretical descriptions and experimental observations. Many have thought that the observed arrow of time was either an artifact of our observations or due to very special initial conditions. An alternative approach, followed by the Brussels-Austin Group, is to consider the observed direction of time to be a basic physical phenomenon and to develop a mathematical formalism that can describe this direction as being due to the dynamics of physical systems. In part I of this essay, I review and assess an attempt to carry out an approach that received much of their attention from the early 1970s to the mid 1980s. In part II, I will discuss their more recent approach using rigged Hilbert spaces.
2003-05
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1155/1/BrusselsAustin1.pdf
Bishop, Robert (2003) Brussels-Austin Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics in the Early Years: Similarity Transformations between Deterministic and Probabilistic Descriptions. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1156
2010-10-07T15:11:46Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1156/
Brussels-Austin Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics in the Later Years: Large Poincaré Systems and Rigged Hilbert Space
Bishop, Robert
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This second part of a two-part essay discusses recent developments in the Brussels-Austin Group after the mid 1980s. The fundamental concerns are the same as in their similarity transformation approach (see Part I), but the contemporary approach utilizes rigged Hilbert space (whereas the older approach used Hilbert space). While the emphasis on nonequilibrium statistical mechanics remains the same, the use of similarity transformations shifts to the background. In its place arose an interest in the physical features of large Poincaré systems, nonlinear dynamics and the mathematical tools necessary to analyze them.
2003-05
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1156/1/BrusselsAustin2.pdf
Bishop, Robert (2003) Brussels-Austin Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics in the Later Years: Large Poincaré Systems and Rigged Hilbert Space. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1232
2010-10-07T15:20:50Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1244
2010-10-07T15:11:53Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D67656E:686973746F72792D6F662D7068696C6F736F7068792D6F662D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1244/
Laws and Statistical Mechanics
Winsberg, Eric
History of Philosophy of Science
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper explores some connections between competing conceptions of scientific laws on the one hand, and a problem in the foundations of statistical mechanics on the other. I examine two proposals for understanding the time asymmetry of thermodynamic phenomenal: David Albert’s recent proposal and a proposal that I outline based on Hans Reichenbach’s “branch systems”. I sketch an argument against the former, and mount a defense of the latter by showing how to accommodate statistical mechanics to recent developments in the philosophy of scientific laws.
2002
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1244/1/Winsberg_laws_and__statmech.doc
Winsberg, Eric (2002) Laws and Statistical Mechanics. In: UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1622
2010-10-07T15:12:19Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:6D6F64656C732D616E642D696465616C697A6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1622/
Critical Phenomena and Breaking Drops: Infinite Idealizations in Physics
Batterman, Robert
Models and Idealization
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics are related to one another through the so-called "thermodynamic limit'' in which, roughly speaking the number of particles becomes infinite. At critical points (places of physical discontinuity) this limit fails to be regular. As a result, the "reduction'' of Thermodynamics to Statistical Mechanics fails to hold at such critical phases. This fact is key to understanding an argument due to Craig Callender to the effect that the thermodynamic limit leads to mistakes in Statistical Mechanics. I discuss this argument and argue that the conclusion is misguided. In addition, I discuss an analogous example where a genuine physical discontinuity---the breaking of drops---requires the use of infinite idealizations.
2004-02
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1622/1/infinite2.pdf
Batterman, Robert (2004) Critical Phenomena and Breaking Drops: Infinite Idealizations in Physics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1729
2010-10-07T15:12:28Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1729/
Eaters of the Lotus: Landauer's Principle and the Return of Maxwell's Demon
Norton, John D.
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Landauer’s principle is the loosely formulated notion that the erasure of n bits of information must always incur a cost of k ln n in thermodynamic entropy. It can be formulated as a precise result in statistical mechanics, but by erasure processes that use a thermodynamically irreversible phase space expansion, which is the real origin of the law’s entropy cost. General arguments that purport to establish the unconditional validity of the law (erasure maps many physical states to one; erasure compresses the phase space) fail. They turn out to depend on the illicit formation of a canonical ensemble from memory devices holding random data. To exorcise Maxwell’s demon one must show that all candidate devices—the ordinary and the extraordinary—must fail to reverse the second law of thermodynamics. The theorizing surrounding Landauer’s principle is too fragile and too tied to a few specific examples to support such general exorcism. Charles Bennett has recently extended Landauer’s principle in order to exorcise a no erasure demon proposed by John Earman and me. The extension fails for the same reasons as trouble the original principle.
2004-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1729/1/Norton.doc
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1729/2/Norton.pdf
Norton, John D. (2004) Eaters of the Lotus: Landauer's Principle and the Return of Maxwell's Demon. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1740
2010-10-07T15:12:29Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6177732D6F662D6E6174757265
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1740/
Measures, Explanations and the Past: Should 'Special' Initial Conditions be Explained?
Callender, Craig
Laws of Nature
Explanation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
For the generalizations of thermodynamics to obtain, it appears that a very “special” initial condition of the universe is required. Is this initial condition itself in need of explanation? I argue that it is not. In so doing, I offer a framework in which to think about “special” initial conditions in all areas of science, though I concentrate on the case of thermodynamics. I urge the view that it is not always a serious mark against a theory that it must posit an “improbable” initial condition.
2004-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1740/1/measures_time_and_explanation.doc
Callender, Craig (2004) Measures, Explanations and the Past: Should 'Special' Initial Conditions be Explained? [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1757
2010-10-07T15:20:57Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1778
2010-10-07T15:12:33Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6669656C642D7468656F7279
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1778/
Explaining Quantum Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking
Liu, Chuang
Emch, Gerard G.
Classical Physics
Explanation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Field Theory
Two alternative accounts of quantum spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) are compared and one of them, the decompositional account in the algebraic approach, is argued to be superior for understanding quantum SSB. Two exactly solvable models are given as applications of our account -- the Weiss-Heisenberg model for ferromagnetism and the BCS model for superconductivity. Finally, the decompositional account is shown to be more conducive to the causal explanation of quantum SSB.
2004-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1778/1/SSBqm1.mss.le.3.04.pdf
Liu, Chuang and Emch, Gerard G. (2004) Explaining Quantum Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1900
2010-10-07T15:21:00Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1938
2010-10-07T15:21:01Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1940
2010-10-07T15:12:49Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1940/
Quantum Decoherence and the Approach to Equilibrium (II)
Shenker, Orly R.
Hemmo, Meir
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
In a previous paper (Hemmo and Shenker 2003) we discussed a recent proposal by Albert (2000, Ch. 7) to recover thermodynamics on a purely dynamical basis, using the quantum theory of the collapse of the quantum state of Ghirardi, Rimini and Weber (1986). We proposed an alternative way to explain thermodynamics within no collapse interpretations of quantum mechanics. In this paper some difficulties faced by both approaches are discussed and solved: the spin echo experiments, and the problem of extremely light gases. In these contexts, we point out several ways in which the above quantum mechanical approaches as well as some other classical approaches to the foundations of statistical mechanics may be distinguished experimentally.
2004-06
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/1940/1/Hemmo-Shenker_Quantum_Decoherence_and_the_Approach_to_Equilibrium_II.doc
Shenker, Orly R. and Hemmo, Meir (2004) Quantum Decoherence and the Approach to Equilibrium (II). [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:1987
2010-10-07T15:21:01Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2166
2010-10-07T15:13:10Z
7374617475733D696E7072657373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2166/
Thermodynamic Irreversibility: Does the Big Bang Explain what it Purports to Explain?
Parker, Daniel
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In this paper I examine Albert’s (2000) claim that the low entropy state of the early universe is sufficient to explain irreversible thermodynamic phenomena. In particular, I argue that conditionalising on the initial state of the universe does not have the explanatory power it is presumed to have. I present several arguments to the effect that Albert’s ‘past hypothesis’ alone cannot justify the belief in past non-equilibrium conditions or ground the veracity of records of the past.
2005
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2166/1/PastHypothesis.doc
Parker, Daniel (2005) Thermodynamic Irreversibility: Does the Big Bang Explain what it Purports to Explain? In: UNSPECIFIED. (In Press)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2201
2010-10-07T15:13:14Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2201/
The contingent law: A tale of Maxwell's Demon
Gijsbers, Victor
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In my master's thesis for physics and philosophy, I take a long and hard look at the debates surrounding Maxwell's Demon and the status of the second law of thermodynamics. I try to clarify the use of Maxwell's thought experiment in understanding the second law; to prove that the second law is contingent, given only classical mechanics and time asymmetry; to argue that the law only holds because of facts about the kinds of particles that exist in our universe; to show that and why the attempts to banish the demon using fluctuations, measurements or information or erasure have been unsuccessful; and I conclude that Maxwell's Demon is alive and kicking.
2004-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2201/1/ContingentLaw.pdf
Gijsbers, Victor (2004) The contingent law: A tale of Maxwell's Demon. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2216
2010-10-07T15:13:16Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:6669656C64732D616E642D7061727469636C6573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2216/
Recent Work on the Arrow of Radiation
Price, Huw
Fields and Particles
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In many physical systems, coupling forces provide a way of carrying the energy stored in adjacent harmonic oscillators from place to place, in the form of waves. The wave equations governing such phenomena are time-symmetric: they permit the opposite processes, in which energy arrives at a point in the form of incoming concentric waves, to be lost to some external system. But these processes seem rare in nature. What explains this temporal asymmetry, and how is it related to the thermodynamic asymmetry? This paper attempts to clarify these old issues, in the light of recent contributions. After brief introductory remarks (§1), the paper is in three main parts. §2 examines the so-called ‘Sommerfeld Radiation Condition’, arguing that its link to the observed asymmetry is much less direct than commonly supposed. §3 begins with Zeh's proposal to make the Sommerfeld condition an ingredient in an explanation of the observed asymmetry, and makes explicit a useful distinction between two ways in which the thermodynamic asymmetry might connect to the radiation asymmetry. §4 reviews a proposal I have defended in earlier work about the relation of the radiative asymmetry to that of thermodynamics, and defends it against recent objections by Zeh and Frisch. I also distinguish it from a recent proposal due to North. I agree with North that the observed asymmetry of radiation stems from the low entropy history, but argue that she mis-characterises the asymmetry, and hence misses a crucial element in a proper account of the role of the low entropy past.
2005-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2216/1/sommerfeld.pdf
Price, Huw (2005) Recent Work on the Arrow of Radiation. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2241
2010-10-07T15:13:18Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D67656E:64657465726D696E69736D2D696E64657465726D696E69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6669656C642D7468656F7279
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2241/
Tense and Indeterminateness
Saunders, Simon
Relativity Theory
Determinism/Indeterminism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Field Theory
Is tense real and objective? Can the fact that something is past, say, be wholly objective, consistent with special relativity? The answer is yes, but only so long as the distinction has no ontological ground. There is a closely related question. Is the contrast between the determinate and the indeterminate real and objective, consistent with relativity and quantum mechanics? The answer is again yes, but only if the contrast has no ontological ground. Various accounts of it are explored, according to different approaches to quantum mechanics. The Everett interpretation is much the most successful in accounting for it.
2000-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2241/1/for_Pittsburgh.pdf
Saunders, Simon (2000) Tense and Indeterminateness. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2256
2010-10-07T15:21:04Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2276
2010-10-07T15:13:20Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2276/
Probability and Statistics in Boltzmann's Early Papers on Kinetic Theory
Badino, Massimiliano
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Boltzmann’s equilibrium theory has not received by the scholars the attention it deserves. It was always interpreted as a mere generalization of Maxwell’s work or, in the most favorable case, a sketch of some ideas more consistently developed in the 1872 memoir. In this paper, I try to prove that this view is ungenerous. My claim is that in the theory developed during the period 1866-1871 the generalization of Maxwell’s distribution was mainly a mean to get a more general scope: a theory of the equilibrium of a system of mechanical points from a general point of view. To face this issue Boltzmann analyzed and discussed probabilistic assumptions so that his equilibrium theory cannot be considered a purely mechanical theory. I claim also that the special perspective adopted by Boltzmann and his view about probabilistic requirements played a role in the transition to the non equilibrium theory of 1872.
2006-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2276/1/Probability_and_Statistics_in_Boltzmann.pdf
Badino, Massimiliano (2006) Probability and Statistics in Boltzmann's Early Papers on Kinetic Theory. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2277
2010-10-07T15:13:21Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2277/
The Foundational Role of Ergodic Theory
Badino, Massimiliano
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The foundation of statistical mechanics and the explanation of the success of its methods rest on the fact that the theoretical values of physical quantities (phase averages) may be compared with the results of experimental measurements (infinite time averages). In the Thirties, this problem, called the ergodic problem, was dealt with by an ergodic theory that tried to resolve the problem by making reference above all to considerations of a dynamic nature. In the present paper, this solution will be analyzed first, highlighting the fact that its very general nature does not duly consider the specificities of the systems of statistical mechanics. Second, A.I. Khinchin’s approach will be presented, that starting with the more specific assumptions about the nature of systems, achieves an asymptotic version of the result obtained with ergodic theory. Third, the statistical meaning of Khinchin’s approach will be analyzed and a comparison between this and the point of view of ergodic theory is proposed. It will be demonstrated that the difference consists principally of two different perspectives on the ergodic problem: that of the ergodic theory puts the state of equilibrium at the center, while Khinchin’s attempts to generalize the result to non-equilibrium states.
2005-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2277/1/The_Foundational_Role_of_Ergodic_Theory.doc
Badino, Massimiliano (2005) The Foundational Role of Ergodic Theory. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2374
2010-10-07T15:13:29Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:636F6D70757465722D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2374/
The Connection between Logical and Thermodynamical Irreversibility
Short, Tony
Ladyman, James
Groisman, Berry
Presnell, Stuart
Computer Science
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
There has recently been a good deal of controversy about Landauer's Principle, which is often stated as follows: The erasure of one bit of information in a computational device is necessarily accompanied by a generation of kT ln 2 heat. This is often generalised to the claim that any logically irreversible operation cannot be implemented in a thermodynamically reversible way. John Norton (2005) and Owen Maroney (2005) both argue that Landauer's Principle has not been shown to hold in general, and Maroney offers a method that he claims instantiates the operation reset in a thermodynamically reversible way. In this paper we defend the qualitative form of Landauer's Principle, and clarify its quantitative consequences (assuming the second law of thermodynamics). We analyse in detail what it means for a physical system to implement a logical transformation L, and we make this precise by defining the notion of an L-machine. Then we show that logical irreversibility of L implies thermodynamic irreversibility of every corresponding L-machine. We do this in two ways. First, by assuming the phenomenological validity of the Kelvin statement of the second law, and second, by using information-theoretic reasoning. We illustrate our results with the example of the logical transformation 'reset', and thereby recover the quantitative form of Landauer's Principle.
2005-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2374/1/irreversibility.pdf
Short, Tony and Ladyman, James and Groisman, Berry and Presnell, Stuart (2005) The Connection between Logical and Thermodynamical Irreversibility. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2390
2010-10-07T15:13:30Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:6D617468656D6174696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2390/
Objectivity, information, and Maxwell's demon
Weinstein, Steven
Mathematics
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper examines some common measures of complexity, structure, and information, with an eye toward understanding the extent to which complexity or information-content may be regarded as objective properties of individual objects. A form of contextual objectivity is proposed which renders the measures objective, and which largely resolves the puzzle of Maxwell's Demon.
2003-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2390/1/info2a.pdf
Weinstein, Steven (2003) Objectivity, information, and Maxwell's demon. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2477
2010-10-07T15:13:40Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:686973746F72792D6F662D736369656E63652D636173652D73747564696573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2477/
Atoms, Entropy, Quanta: Einstein’s Miraculous Argument of 1905
Norton, John D.
History of Science Case Studies
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
In the sixth section of his light quantum paper of 1905, Einstein presented the miraculous argument, as I shall call it. Pointing out an analogy with ideal gases and dilute solutions, he showed that the macroscopic, thermodynamic properties of high frequency heat radiation carry a distinctive signature of finitely many, spatially localized, independent components and so inferred that it consists of quanta. I describe how Einstein’s other statistical papers of 1905 had already developed and exploited the idea that the ideal gas law is another macroscopic signature of finitely many, spatially localized, independent components and that these papers in turn drew on his first two, “worthless” papers of 1901 and 1902 on intermolecular forces. However, while the ideal gas law was a secure signature of independence, it was harder to use as an indicator that there are finitely many components and that they are spatially localized. Further, since his analysis of the ideal gas law depended on the assumption that the number of components was fixed, its use was precluded for heat radiation, whose component quanta vary in number in most processes. So Einstein needed and found another, more powerful signature of discreteness applicable to heat radiation and which indicated all these properties. It used one of the few processes, volume fluctuation, in which heat radiation does not alter the number of quanta.
2005-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2477/1/Norton.pdf
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2477/2/Norton.doc
Norton, John D. (2005) Atoms, Entropy, Quanta: Einstein’s Miraculous Argument of 1905. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2521
2010-10-07T15:13:42Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2521/
Popper on irreversibility and the arrow of time
Esfeld, Michael
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Popper challenges the mainstream account of irreversibility, which refers to thermodynamics, by putting forward three theses: (1) There are irreversible processes of wave-production. (2) These processes are independent of the irreversible processes described by thermodynamics. (3) The irreversible processes described by thermodynamics do not have a cosmic significance. Hence, Popper traces irreversibility back to radiation instead of increase in entropy. However, I shall argue that Popper’s account runs into the same problem as the mainstream account: Both these accounts presuppose initial conditions of the universe that seem to be at least as improbable as anything that is explained by referring in the last resort to these initial conditions. Thus, neither thermodynamics nor radiation provides for an explanation of irreversibility. The appropriate place to look for such an explanation is cosmology. Popper’s main motivation in favouring radiation over entropy increase as the source of irreversibility is that he regards a statistical theory of the arrow of time as being unacceptable. By the arrow of time, he means the flow of time in the sense of a temporal view of the universe. I shall claim that irreversible processes do not provide an argument for assuming an arrow of time in this sense. A Newtonian world can include an arrow of time without having to contain irreversible processes. Special relativity suggests an atemporal view of the universe, the so-called block universe view. The block universe can include irreversible processes such as the ones of radiation and entropy increase. General relativity does not change that matter. Hence, in order to make a case for a physical basis of the arrow of time in the sense of a temporal view of the universe, other arguments would be needed than Popper’s argument building on irreversible processes.
2005-11
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2521/1/Esfeld-Popper05.pdf
Esfeld, Michael (2005) Popper on irreversibility and the arrow of time. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2623
2010-10-07T15:13:53Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:73796D6D6574726965732D696E76617269616E636573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2623/
Are quantum particles objects?
Saunders, Simon
Symmetries/Invariances
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
Particle indistinguishability has always been considered a purely quantum mechanical concept. In parallel, indistinguishable particles have been thought to be entities that are not properly speaking objects at all. I argue, to the contrary, that the concept can equally be applied to classical particles, and that in either case particles may (with certain exceptions) be counted as objects even though they are indistinguishable. The exceptions are elementary bosons (for example photons).
2006-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2623/1/Analysis.pdf
Saunders, Simon (2006) Are quantum particles objects? [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2678
2010-10-07T15:13:59Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:636175736174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2678/
Isolation and folk physics
Elga, Adam
Causation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
There is a huge chasm between the notion of lawful determination that figures in fundamental physics, and the notion of causal determination that figures in the "folk physics" of everyday objects. In everyday life, we think of the behavior of an ordinary object as being determined by a small set of simple conditions. But in fundamental physics, no such conditions suffice to determine an ordinary object's behavior. What bridges the chasm is that fundamental physical laws make the folk picture of the world approximately true in certain domains. How? In part, by entailing that many objects are approximately isolated from most of their environments. Dynamical laws yield this result only in conjunction with appropriate statistical assumptions about initial conditions.
2005-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2678/1/isolation-folk-philsci.pdf
Elga, Adam (2005) Isolation and folk physics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2689
2010-10-07T15:14:00Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:636F6D70757465722D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2689/
The Connection between Logical and Thermodynamic Irreversibility
Ladyman, James
Presnell, Stuart
Short, Anthony J.
Groisman, Berry
Computer Science
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
There has recently been a good deal of controversy about Landauer's Principle, which is often stated as follows: The erasure of one bit of information in a computational device is necessarily accompanied by a generation of kTln2 heat. This is often generalised to the claim that any logically irreversible operation cannot be implemented in a thermodynamically reversible way. John Norton (2005) and Owen Maroney (2005) both argue that Landauer's Principle has not been shown to hold in general, and Maroney offers a method that he claims instantiates the operation Reset in a thermodynamically reversible way. In this paper we defend the qualitative form of Landauer's Principle, and clarify its quantitative consequences (assuming the second law of thermodynamics). We analyse in detail what it means for a physical system to implement a logical transformation L, and we make this precise by defining the notion of an L-machine. Then we show that logical irreversibility of L implies thermodynamic irreversibility of every corresponding L-machine. We do this in two ways. First, by assuming the phenomenological validity of the Kelvin statement of the second law, and second, by using information-theoretic reasoning. We illustrate our results with the example of the logical transformation 'Reset', and thereby recover the quantitative form of Landauer's Principle.
2006-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2689/1/irreversibility%28rev2%29.pdf
Ladyman, James and Presnell, Stuart and Short, Anthony J. and Groisman, Berry (2006) The Connection between Logical and Thermodynamic Irreversibility. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2691
2010-10-07T15:14:00Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2691/
Compendium of the foundations of classical statistical physics
Uffink, Jos
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Roughly speaking, classical statistical physics is the branch of theoretical physics that aims to account for the thermal behaviour of macroscopic bodies in terms of a classical mechanical model of their microscopic constituents, with the help of probabilistic assumptions. In the last century and a half, a fair number of approaches have been developed to meet this aim. This study of their foundations assesses their coherence and analyzes the motivations for their basic assumptions, and the interpretations of their central concepts. The most outstanding foundational problems are the explanation of time-asymmetry in thermal behaviour, the relative autonomy of thermal phenomena from their microscopic underpinning, and the meaning of probability. A more or less historic survey is given of the work of Maxwell, Boltzmann and Gibbs in statistical physics, and the problems and objections to which their work gave rise. Next, we review some modern approaches to (i) equilibrium statistical mechanics, such as ergodic theory and the theory of the thermodynamic limit; and to (ii) non-equilibrium statistical mechanics as provided by Lanford's work on the Boltzmann equation, the so-called Bogolyubov-Born-Green-Kirkwood-Yvon approach, and stochastic approaches such as `coarse-graining' and the `open systems' approach. In all cases, we focus on the subtle interplay between probabilistic assumptions, dynamical assumptions, initial conditions and other ingredients used in these approaches.
2006-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2691/1/UffinkFinal.pdf
Uffink, Jos (2006) Compendium of the foundations of classical statistical physics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2723
2010-10-07T15:14:04Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2723/
Probability and Statistics in Boltzmann's Early Papers on Kinetic Theory
Badino, Massimiliano
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Boltzmann’s equilibrium theory has not received by the scholars the attention it deserves. It was always interpreted as a mere generalization of Maxwell’s work and, in the most favorable case, a sketch of some ideas more consistently developed in 1872 memoir. In this paper, I tried to prove that this view is ungenerous. My claim is that in the theory developed during the period 1866-1871 the generalization of Maxwell’s distribution was mainly a mean to get a more general scope: a theory of the equilibrium of a system of mechanical points from a general point of view. To face this issue Boltzmann analyzed and discussed probabilistic assumptions so that his equilibrium theory cannot be considered a purely mechanical theory. I claim also that the peculiar perspective adopted by Boltzmann and his view about probabilistic requirements played a role in the transition to the non equilibrium theory of 1872.
2005-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2723/1/Probability_and_Statistics_in_Boltzmann%27s_Early_Papers_on_Kinetic_Theory_-_FV.doc
Badino, Massimiliano (2005) Probability and Statistics in Boltzmann's Early Papers on Kinetic Theory. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2788
2010-10-07T15:14:09Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D67656E:6D6F64656C732D616E642D696465616C697A6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:65636F6E6F6D696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:6368616F732D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2788/
How Do Microscopic Models of Financial Markets Explain?
Kuhlmann, Meinard
Models and Idealization
Economics
Explanation
Complex Systems
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Financial theory is in trouble. Market crashes and high volatility are only too familiar to everyone, although the standard theories predict that they hardly ever occur. According to the well-known and (partly due to its simplicity) still widely used random-walk model, the probabilities for price changes of, say, stocks should result in a Gaussian distribution. However, experience tells us that large changes occur far more often than ‘allowed’ by a Gaussian distribution. New models are needed which lead to realistic probability distributions. ‘Econophysicists’ are particularly active in this field by constructing microscopic models of financial markets on the basis of various ideas and tools from physics. But in which sense do these models contribute scientific explanations? In this paper I will investigate what and how one exemplary econophysics model explains.
2006
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2788/1/ParisPaper.pdf
Kuhlmann, Meinard (2006) How Do Microscopic Models of Financial Markets Explain? In: UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2822
2016-06-15T20:53:03Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2822/
Synopsis of the Robert and Sarah Boote Conference in Reductionism and Anti-Reductionism in Physics
Jones, Nicholaos
Coffey, Kevin
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This document is a synopsis of discussions at the workshop prepared by Nicholaos Jones and Kevin Coffey, with remarks added by by Chuang Liu, John D. Norton, John Earman, Gordon Belot, Mark Wilson, Bob Batterman and Margie Morrison. The program is included in an appendix.
2006
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
text
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2822/1/Synopsis_v7.pdf
text
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2822/2/Synopsis_v7.rtf
Jones, Nicholaos and Coffey, Kevin (2006) Synopsis of the Robert and Sarah Boote Conference in Reductionism and Anti-Reductionism in Physics. In: UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2823
2010-10-07T15:14:13Z
7374617475733D756E707562
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2823/
Varieties of Explanatory Autonomy
Sklar, Lawrence
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This is the text of a talk given at the Robert and Sarah Boote Conference in Reductionism and Anti-Reductionism in Physics, 22-23 April, 2006, Center for Philosophy of Science University of Pittsburgh.
2006-01
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2823/1/Varieties_of_Explanatory_Autonomy.pdf
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2823/2/Varieties_of_Explanatory_Autonomy.doc
Sklar, Lawrence (2006) Varieties of Explanatory Autonomy. In: UNSPECIFIED. (Unpublished)
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2852
2010-10-07T15:14:15Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2852/
Reduction and Renormalization
Batterman, Robert
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper discusses the alleged reduction of Thermodynamics to Statistical Mechanics. It includes an historical discussion of J. Willard Gibbs' famous caution concerning the connections between thermodynamic properties and statistical mechanical properties---his so-called ``Thermodynamic Analogies.'' The reasons for Gibbs' caution are reconsidered in light of relatively recent work in statistical physics on the existence of the thermodynamic limit and the explanation of critical behavior using the renormalization group apparatus. A probabilistic understanding of the renormalization group arguments allows for a kind of unification of Gibbs' approach with contemporary understanding of the reduction problem.
2006
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2852/1/red-renorm.pdf
Batterman, Robert (2006) Reduction and Renormalization. In: UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2853
2010-10-07T15:14:15Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2853/
Justification in Statistical Mechanics
Davey, Kevin
Probability/Statistics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
According to a standard view of the second law of thermodynamics, our belief in the second law can be justified by pointing out that low entropy macrostates are less probable than high entropy macrostates, and then noting that a system in an improbable state will tend to evolve toward a more probable state. I would like to argue that this justification of the second law of thermodynamics is fundamentally flawed, and will show that some puzzles sometimes associated with the second law are merely artifacts of this incorrect justification.
2006-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2853/1/prob_stat_mech.pdf
Davey, Kevin (2006) Justification in Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2875
2010-10-07T18:32:26Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2875/
Can science advance effectively through philosophical criticism and reflection?
Torretti, Roberto
Relativity Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Prompted by Hasok Chang’s conception of the history and philosophy of science (HPS) as the continuation of science by other means, I examine the possibility of obtaining scientific knowledge through philosophical criticism and reflection, in the light of four historical cases, concerning (i) the role of absolute space in Newtonian dynamics, (ii) the purported contraction of rods and retardation of clocks in Special Relativity, (iii) the reality of the electromagnetic ether, and (iv) the so-called problem of time’s arrow. In all four cases it is clear that a better understanding of such matters can be achieved —and has been achieved— through conceptual analysis. On the other hand, however, it would seem that this kind of advance has more to do with philosophical questions in science than with narrowly scientific questions. Hence, if HPS in effect continues the work of science by other means, it could well be doing it for other ends than those that working scientists ordinarily have in mind.
2006-08
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2875/1/paper.pdf
Torretti, Roberto (2006) Can science advance effectively through philosophical criticism and reflection? [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2878
2010-10-07T15:14:18Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2878/
Was there a statistical Turn ? The Interaction between Mechanics and Probability in Boltzmann's Theory of Non Equilibrium (1872-1877)
Badino, Massimiliano
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
No Abstract
2006-08
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2878/1/Was_There_a_Statistical_Turn.pdf
Badino, Massimiliano (2006) Was there a statistical Turn ? The Interaction between Mechanics and Probability in Boltzmann's Theory of Non Equilibrium (1872-1877). [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2927
2010-10-07T15:14:22Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2927/
The Ergodic Hierarchy, Randomness and Hamiltonian Chaos
Berkovitz, Joseph
Frigg, Roman
Kronz, Fred
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Various processes are often classified as both deterministic and random or chaotic. The main difficulty in analysing the randomness of such processes is the apparent tension between the notions of randomness and determinism: what type of randomness could exist in a deterministic process? Ergodic theory seems to offer a particularly promising theoretical tool for tackling this problem by positing a hierarchy, the so-called ‘ergodic hierarchy’ (EH), which is commonly assumed to provide a hierarchy of increasing degrees of randomness. However, that notion of randomness requires clarification. The mathematical definition of EH does not make explicit appeal to randomness; nor does the usual way of presenting EH involve a specification of the notion of randomness that is supposed to underlie the hierarchy. In this paper we argue that EH is best understood as a hierarchy of random behaviour if randomness is explicated in terms of unpredictability. We then show that, contrary to common wisdom, EH is useful in characterising the behaviour of Hamiltonian dynamical systems.
2006-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2927/1/EH_and_Chaos.pdf
Berkovitz, Joseph and Frigg, Roman and Kronz, Fred (2006) The Ergodic Hierarchy, Randomness and Hamiltonian Chaos. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2929
2010-10-07T15:14:22Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2929/
In What Sense is the Kolmogorov-Sinai Entropy a Measure for Chaotic Behaviour? - Bridging the Gap Between Dynamical Systems Theory and Communication Theory
Frigg, Roman
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
On an influential account, chaos is explained in terms of random behaviour; and random behaviour in turn is explained in terms of having positive Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy (KSE). Though intuitively plausible, the association of the KSE with random behaviour needs justification since the definition of the KSE does not make reference to any notion that is connected to randomness. I provide this justification for the case of Hamiltonian systems by proving that the KSE is equivalent to a generalized version of Shannon's communication-theoretic entropy under certain plausible assumptions. I then discuss consequences of this equivalence for randomness in chaotic dynamical systems.
2003
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2929/1/KS_Entropy.pdf
Frigg, Roman (2003) In What Sense is the Kolmogorov-Sinai Entropy a Measure for Chaotic Behaviour? - Bridging the Gap Between Dynamical Systems Theory and Communication Theory. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2934
2010-10-07T15:14:23Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:6368656D6973747279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2934/
Contextual Emergence in the Description of Properties
Bishop, Robert C
Atmanspacher, Harald
Reductionism/Holism
Chemistry
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The role of contingent contexts in formulating relations between properties of systems at different descriptive levels is addressed. Based on the distinction between necessary and sufficient conditions for interlevel relations, a comprehensive classification of such relations is proposed, providing a transparent conceptual framework for discussing particular versions of reduction, emergence, and supervenience. One of these versions, contextual emergence, is demonstrated using two physical examples: molecular structure and chirality, and thermal equilibrium and temperature. The concept of stability is emphasized as a basic guiding principle of contextual property emergence.
2006-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2934/1/embishFinalArchive.pdf
Bishop, Robert C and Atmanspacher, Harald (2006) Contextual Emergence in the Description of Properties. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:2992
2010-10-07T15:14:31Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:6D6F64656C732D616E642D696465616C697A6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D67656E:6578706C616E6174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2992/
Modelling Molecules: Beyond the Epistemic-Pragmatic Dichotomy
de Regt, Henk W.
Models and Idealization
Explanation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
I argue that scientific explanation has a pragmatic dimension that is epistemically relevant. Philosophers with an objectivist approach to scientific explanation (e.g. Hempel, Trout) hold that the pragmatic aspects of explanation do not have any epistemic import. I argue against this view by focusing on the role of models in scientific explanation. Applying recent accounts of modelling (Cartwright, Morgan and Morrison) to a case-study of nineteenth-century physics, I analyse the pragmatic dimension of the process of model construction. I highlight the crucial roles that conceptual tools, skills, and commitments play in this dimension, and show how they contribute to the epistemic aim of science.
2006
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/2992/1/PSA_2006_PhilSci_version.doc
de Regt, Henk W. (2006) Modelling Molecules: Beyond the Epistemic-Pragmatic Dichotomy. In: UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3009
2010-10-07T15:14:33Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3009/
The Use of the Information Theoretic Entropy in Thermodynamics
Ladyman, James
Presnell, Stuart
Short, Anthony J.
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
When considering controversial thermodynamic scenarios such as Maxwell's demon, it is often necessary to consider probabilistic mixtures of states. This raises the question of how, if at all, to assign entropy to them. The information-theoretic entropy is often used in such cases; however, no general proof of the soundness of doing so has been given, and indeed some arguments against doing so have been presented. We offer a general proof of the applicability of the information-theoretic entropy to probabilistic mixtures of macrostates, making clear the assumptions on which it depends, in particular a probabilistic version of the Kelvin statement of the Second Law. We briefly discuss the interpretation of our result.
2006-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3009/1/InfoEntropy.pdf
Ladyman, James and Presnell, Stuart and Short, Anthony J. (2006) The Use of the Information Theoretic Entropy in Thermodynamics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3116
2010-10-07T15:21:18Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3135
2010-10-07T15:14:47Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3135/
Particles, Objects, and Physics
Pniower, Justin
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
This thesis analyses the ontological nature of quantum particles. In it I argue that quantum particles, despite their indistinguishability, are objects in much the same way as classical particles. This similarity provides an important point of continuity between classical and quantum physics. I consider two notions of indistinguishability, that of indiscernibility and permutation symmetry. I argue that neither sort of indistinguishability undermines the identity of quantum particles. I further argue that, when we understand in distinguishability in terms of permutation symmetry, classical particles are just as indistinguishable as quantum particles; for classical physics also possesses permutation symmetry.
2005
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3135/1/dphil-bod.pdf
Pniower, Justin (2005) Particles, Objects, and Physics. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3140
2010-10-07T15:14:48Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:73796D6D6574726965732D696E76617269616E636573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:6669656C64732D616E642D7061727469636C6573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3140/
Maxwell's demon through the looking glass
Silagadze, Zurab
Symmetries/Invariances
Fields and Particles
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Mechanical Maxwell's demons, such as Smoluchowski's trapdoor and Feynman's ratchet and pawl need external energy source to operate. If you cease to feed a demon the Second Law of thermodynamics will quickly stop its operation. Nevertheless, if the parity is an unbroken symmetry of nature, it may happenthat a small modification leads to demons which do not need feeding. Such demons can act like perpetuum mobiles of the second kind: extract heat energy from only one reservoir, use it to do work and be isolated from the rest of ordinary world. Yet the Second Law is not violated because the demons pay their entropy cost in the hidden (mirror) sector of the world by emitting mirror photons.
2007-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3140/1/demon.pdf
Silagadze, Zurab (2007) Maxwell's demon through the looking glass. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3142
2010-10-07T15:14:49Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3142/
Prediction and retrodiction in Boltzmann's approach to classical statistical mechanics
Shenker, Orly R.
Hemmo, Meir
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In this paper we address two problems in Boltzmann's approach to statistical mechanics. The first is the justification of the probabilistic predictions of the theory. And the second is the inadequacy of the theory's retrodictions.
2006-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3142/1/Hemmo_Shenker_on_Boltzmann_23Jan07.doc
Shenker, Orly R. and Hemmo, Meir (2006) Prediction and retrodiction in Boltzmann's approach to classical statistical mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3271
2010-10-07T15:15:02Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:74686F756768742D6578706572696D656E7473
7375626A656374733D73706563:636F6D70757465722D736369656E63652D6172746966696369616C2D696E74656C6C6967656E6365
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6177732D6F662D6E6174757265
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636F736D6F6C6F6779
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3271/
Dark Energy And Life's Ultimate Future
Vaas, Ruediger
Thought Experiments
Artificial Intelligence
Laws of Nature
Cosmology
Relativity Theory
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The discovery of the present accelerated expansion of space changed everything regarding cosmology and life's ultimate prospects. Both the optimistic scenarios of an ever (but decelerated) expanding universe and of a collapsing universe seem to be no longer available. The final future looks deadly dark. However, the fate of the universe and intelligence depends crucially on the nature of the still mysterious dark energy which drives the accelerated expansion. Depending on its – perhaps time-dependent – equation of state, there is a confusing number of different models now, popularly called Big Rip, Big Whimper, Big Decay, Big Crunch, Big Brunch, Big Splat, etc. This paper briefly reviews possibilities and problems. It also argues that even if our universe is finally doomed, perhaps that doesn't matter ultimately because there might be some kind of eternal recurrence.
2006
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3271/1/Vaas-DE.pdf
Vaas, Ruediger (2006) Dark Energy And Life's Ultimate Future. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3316
2010-10-07T15:15:07Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3316/
Mechanical Proof of the Second Law of Thermodynamics Based on Volume Entropy
Campisi, Michele
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In a previous work (M. Campisi. Stud. Hist. Phil. M. P. 36 (2005) 275-290) we have addressed the mechanical foundations of equilibrium thermodynamics on the basis of the Generalized Helmholtz Theorem. It was found that the volume entropy provides a good mechanical analogue of thermodynamic entropy because it satisfies the heat theorem and it is an adiabatic invariant. This property explains the ``equal'' sign in Clausius principle ($S_f \geq S_i$) in a purely mechanical way and suggests that the volume entropy might explain the ``larger than'' sign (i.e. the Law of Entropy Increase) if non adiabatic transformations were considered. Based on the principles of microscopic (quantum or classical) mechanics here we prove that, provided the initial equilibrium satisfy the natural condition of decreasing ordering of probabilities, the expectation value of the volume entropy cannot decrease for arbitrary transformations performed by some external sources of work on a insulated system. This can be regarded as a rigorous quantum mechanical proof of the Second Law. We discuss how this result relates to the Minimal Work Principle and improves over previous attempts. The natural evolution of entropy is towards larger values because the natural state of matter is at positive temperature. Actually the Law of Entropy Decrease holds in artificially prepared negative temperature systems.
2007-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3316/1/philSci-sub-v1.pdf
Campisi, Michele (2007) Mechanical Proof of the Second Law of Thermodynamics Based on Volume Entropy. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3390
2010-10-07T15:15:15Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:636175736174696F6E
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3390/
Does a Low-Entropy Constraint Prevent Us from Influencing the Past?
Frisch, Mathias
Causation
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
David Albert (2000) and Barry Loewer (2007) have argued that the temporal asymmetry of our concept of causal influence or control is grounded in the statistical mechanical assumption of a low-entropy past. In this paper I critically examine Albert's and Loewer's accounts.
2007-06
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3390/1/Influencing_the_Past.pdf
Frisch, Mathias (2007) Does a Low-Entropy Constraint Prevent Us from Influencing the Past? UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3437
2010-10-07T15:15:23Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:686973746F72792D6F662D736369656E63652D636173652D73747564696573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3437/
Einstein’s Miraculous Argument of 1905: The Thermodynamic Grounding of Light Quanta
Norton, John D.
History of Science Case Studies
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
A major part of Einstein’s 1905 light quantum paper is devoted to arguing that high frequency heat radiation bears the characteristic signature of a microscopic energy distribution of independent, spatially localized components. The content of his light quantum proposal was precarious in that it contradicted the great achievement of nineteenth century physics, the wave theory of light and its accommodation in electrodynamics. However the methods used to arrive at it were both secure and familiar to Einstein in 1905. A mainstay of Einstein’s research in statistical physics, extending to his earliest publications of 1901 and 1902, had been the inferring of the microscopic constitution of systems from their macroscopic properties. In his statistical work of 1905, Einstein dealt with several thermal systems consisting of many, independent, spatially localized components. They were the dilute sugar solutions of his doctoral dissertation and suspended particles of his Brownian motion paper.
2007-07
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3437/1/Miraculous_Berlin.pdf
Norton, John D. (2007) Einstein’s Miraculous Argument of 1905: The Thermodynamic Grounding of Light Quanta. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3489
2010-10-07T15:15:28Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3489/
Probability in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics
Frigg, Roman
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In two recent papers Barry Loewer (2001, 2004) has suggested to interpret probabilities in statistical mechanics as Humean chances in David Lewis’ (1994) sense. I first give a precise formulation of this proposal, then raise two fundamental objections, and finally conclude that these can be overcome only at the price of interpreting these probabilities epistemically.
2007-04
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3489/1/Probability_in_Boltzmannian_SM.pdf
Frigg, Roman (2007) Probability in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3533
2010-10-07T15:15:35Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3533/
Does a computer have an arrow of time?
Maroney, Owen
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
In [Sch05a], it is argued that Boltzmann's intuition, that the psychological arrow of time is necessarily aligned with the thermodynamic arrow, is correct. Schulman gives an explicit physical mechanism for this connection, based on the brain being representable as a computer, together with certain thermodynamic properties of computational processes. [Haw94] presents similar, if briefer, arguments. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the support for the link between thermodynamics and an arrow of time for computers. The principal arguments put forward by Schulman and Hawking will be shown to fail. It will be shown that any computational process that can take place in an entropy increasing universe, can equally take place in an entropy decreasing universe. This conclusion does not automatically imply a psychological arrow can run counter to the thermodynamic arrow. Some alternative possible explanations for the alignment of the two arrows will be briefly discussed.
2007-09
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3533/1/paper14.pdf
Maroney, Owen (2007) Does a computer have an arrow of time? [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3595
2010-10-07T15:15:44Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3595/
Boltzmann, Gibbs and the Concept of Equilibrium
Lavis, David
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The Boltzmann and Gibbs approaches to statistical mechanics have very different definitions of equilibrium and entropy. The problems associated with this are discussed and it is suggested that they can be resolved, to produce a version of statistical mechanics incorporating both approaches, by redefining equilibrium not as a binary property (being/not being in equilibrium) but as a continuous property (degrees of equilibrium) measured by the Boltzmann entropy and by introducing the idea of thermodynamic-like behaviour for the Boltzmann entropy. The Kac ring model is used as an example to test the proposals.
2007-09
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3595/1/lavispsa.pdf
Lavis, David (2007) Boltzmann, Gibbs and the Concept of Equilibrium. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3716
2016-11-11T17:31:24Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:74686F756768742D6578706572696D656E7473
7375626A656374733D67656E:7068696C6F736F70686572732D6F662D736369656E6365
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:686973746F72792D6F662D736369656E63652D636173652D73747564696573
7375626A656374733D67656E:7265616C69736D2D616E74692D7265616C69736D
7375626A656374733D67656E:6F7065726174696F6E616C69736D2D696E7374756D656E74616C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3716/
Von Neumann's Entropy Does Not Correspond to Thermodynamic Entropy
Shenker, Orly R.
Hemmo, Meir
Thought Experiments
Philosophers of Science
Physics
History of Science Case Studies
Realism/Anti-realism
Operationalism/Instrumentalism
Probability/Statistics
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
Abstract Von Neumann (1932, Ch. 5) argued by means of a thought experiment involving measurements of spin observables that the quantum mechanical quantity is conceptually equivalent to thermodynamic entropy. We analyze Von Neumann's thought experiment and show that his argument fails. Over the past few years there has been a dispute in the literature regarding the Von Neumann entropy. It turns out that each contribution to this dispute (Shenker 1999, Henderson 2001, Hemmo 2003) addressed a different special case. In this paper we generalize the discussion and examine the full matrix of possibilities that are relevant for the evaluation and understanding of Von Neumann’s argument.
2006
Other
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3716/1/Hemmo-Shenker_on_Von_Neumann.doc
Shenker, Orly R. and Hemmo, Meir (2006) Von Neumann's Entropy Does Not Correspond to Thermodynamic Entropy. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3795
2016-11-11T17:30:41Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:74686F756768742D6578706572696D656E7473
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:636F6D7075746174696F6E2D696E666F726D6174696F6E:436C6173736963616C
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3795/
Maxwell's Demon
Shenker, Orly R.
Hemmo, Meir
Probability/Statistics
Thought Experiments
Classical Physics
Classical
Reductionism/Holism
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
"Maxwell's Demon", the famous thought experiment of James Clerk Maxwell, has been devised in 1867 as a counter example for the Second Law of thermodynamics. During the 140 years since the Demon was first suggested, numerous attempts have been made to counter Maxwell's argument. The attempts have been to show that Maxwell was wrong, since his Demon cannot work for one reason or another (see Leff and Rex 2003 for details and references). In this paper we show (following an argument by Albert 2000, Ch. 5.) that Maxwell was basically right, in the sense that his thought experiment is compatible with the laws of mechanics as well as with central principles of statistical mechanics. We then derive some (weak) restrictions on the Demon's efficiency. Finally, we prove that the Demon's cycle of operation can be completed (in particular, the Demon's memory can be erased) without increasing the total entropy of the universe. We draw some conclusions about the way to understand the meaning and role of probability in classical statistical mechanics
2006-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3795/1/Hemmo%26Shenker_Maxwell_Demon_December2007_Archive.doc
Shenker, Orly R. and Hemmo, Meir (2006) Maxwell's Demon. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3808
2010-10-07T15:21:31Z
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3915
2010-10-07T15:16:19Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3915/
Typicality and the Approach to Equilibrium in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics
Frigg, Roman
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Why do systems prepared in a non-equilibrium state approach, and eventually reach, equilibrium? An important contemporary version of the Boltzmannian approach answers this question by an appeal to the notion of typicality. This approach has grown increasingly popular in recent years, and it has been advocated, among others, by Goldstein, Lebowitz, and Zangh`ı. The problem with this approach is that it comes in different versions, which are, however, not recognised as such, much less clearly distinguished. Weoften find different arguments pursued side by side. The aim of this paper is to disentangle different versions of typicality-based explanations of thermodynamic behaviour and evaluate their respective success. My conclusion will be that the boldest version fails for technical reasons, while more prudent versions leave unanswered essential questions.
2007-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3915/1/Typicality.pdf
Frigg, Roman (2007) Typicality and the Approach to Equilibrium in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:3964
2010-10-07T15:16:26Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:726564756374696F6E69736D2D686F6C69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3964/
A Field Guide to Recent Work on the Foundations of Statistical Mechanics.
Frigg, Roman
Probability/Statistics
Classical Physics
Reductionism/Holism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This is an extensive review of recent work on the foundations of statistical mechanics.
2008-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/3964/1/SM_Fieldguide.pdf
Frigg, Roman (2008) A Field Guide to Recent Work on the Foundations of Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4187
2010-10-07T15:17:00Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:73796D6D6574726965732D696E76617269616E636573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4187/
Boltzmann's H-theorem, its limitations, and the birth of (fully) statistical mechanics
Brown, Harvey R.
Myrvold, Wayne
Probability/Statistics
Symmetries/Invariances
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
A comparison is made of the traditional Loschmidt (reversibility) and Zermelo (recurrence) objections to Boltzmann's H-theorem, and its simplified variant in the Ehrenfests' 1912 wind-tree model. The little-cited 1896 (pre-recurrence) objection of Zermelo (similar to an 1889 argument due to Poincare) is also analysed. Significant differences between the objections are highlighted, and several old and modern misconceptions concerning both them and the H-theorem are clarified. We give particular emphasis to the radical nature of Poincare's and Zermelo's attack, and the importance of the shift in Boltzmann's thinking in response to the objections as a whole.
2008-09
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4187/1/Reversibility08.pdf
Brown, Harvey R. and Myrvold, Wayne (2008) Boltzmann's H-theorem, its limitations, and the birth of (fully) statistical mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4261
2010-10-07T15:17:12Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4261/
The Past Hypothesis Meets Gravity
Callender, Craig
Classical Physics
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The Past Hypothesis is the claim that the Boltzmann entropy of the universe was extremely low when the universe began. Can we make sense of this claim when *classical* gravitation is included in the system? I first show that the standard rationale for not worrying about gravity is too quick. If the paper does nothing else, my hope is that it gets the problems induced by gravity the attention they deserve in the foundations of physics. I then try to make plausible a very weak claim: that there is a well-defined Boltzmann entropy that *can* increase in *some* interesting self-gravitating systems. More work is needed before we can say whether this claim answers the threat to the standard explanation of entropy increase.
2008-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4261/1/The_Past_Hypothesis_Meets_Gravity2-1.doc
Callender, Craig (2008) The Past Hypothesis Meets Gravity. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4263
2010-10-07T15:17:13Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:7175616E74756D2D6D656368616E696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4263/
The Emergence and Interpretation of Probability in Bohmian Mechanics
Callender, Craig
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Quantum Mechanics
A persistent question about the deBroglie–Bohm interpretation of quantum mechanics concerns the understanding of Born’s rule in the theory. Where do the quantum mechanical probabilities come from? How are they to be interpreted? These are the problems of emergence and interpretation. In more than 50 years no consensus regarding the answers has been achieved. Indeed, mirroring the foundational disputes in statistical mechanics, the answers to each question are surprisingly diverse. This paper is an opinionated survey of this literature. While acknowledging the pros and cons of various positions, it defends particular answers to how the probabilities emerge from Bohmian mechanics and how they ought to be interpreted.
2007-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4263/1/Probability.pdf
Callender, Craig (2007) The Emergence and Interpretation of Probability in Bohmian Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4278
2010-10-07T15:17:16Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:72656C617469766974792D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4278/
Minkowski Space-time and Thermodynamics
Weinert, Friedel
Relativity Theory
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The purpose of this paper is twofold: a) to explore the compatibility of Minkowski’s space-time representation of the Special theory of relativity with a dynamic conception of space-time; b) to locate its roots in invariant features - like entropic relations - of the propagation of signals in space-time. From its very beginning Minkowski’s four-dimensional space-time was associated with a static view of reality, e.g. a block universe. Einstein added his influential voice to this conception when he wrote: ‘From a “happening” in three-dimensional space, physics becomes (…) an “existence” in the four-dimensional “world”.’ (Einstein, Relativity 1920, 122) Yet it is by no means clear that Minkowski himself was a believer in the block universe. In his 1908 Cologne lecture on ‘Space and Time’ he speaks of a four-dimensional physics but concedes that a ‘necessary’ time order can be established at every world point. Although the conception of the block universe has gained much currency, an alternative view has been in circulation since the 1910s according to which the trajectories of particles constitute histories in space-time. (Robb 1914, Cunningham 1915, Carathéodorys 1924, Schlick 1917, Reichenbach 1924)
2008-10
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4278/1/Minkowski_Spacetime%26Thermodynamics.pdf
Weinert, Friedel (2008) Minkowski Space-time and Thermodynamics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4282
2010-10-07T15:17:16Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4282/
What is Gibb's Canonical Distribution?
Davey, Kevin
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Although the canonical distribution is one the central tools of statistical mechanics, the reason for its effectiveness is poorly understood. Part of the reason for this is that it not at all obvious what it means to use the canonical distribution to describe a system in equilibrium with a heat bath. In this paper, I examine some traditional suggestions as to what sort of thing we should take the canonical distribution to be. I suggest that a less explored alternative has some advantages that other suggestions do not, and so deserves further attention. I then go on to show that the way in which the canonical distribution is interpreted impacts the manner in which certain technical problems in physics should be approached. These technical problems concern the modeling of heat baths, and the behavior of systems that come into contact with them.
2008
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4282/1/Gibbs.pdf
Davey, Kevin (2008) What is Gibb's Canonical Distribution? In: UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4441
2010-10-07T15:17:36Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4441/
Typicality and the Approach to Equilibrium in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics
Frigg, Roman
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Systems prepared in a non-equilibrium state approach, and eventually reach, equilibrium. Why do they do so? An important contemporary version of the Boltzmannian approach to statistical mechanics answers this question in terms of typicality. The problem with this approach is that it comes in different versions, which are, however, not recognised as such and not clearly distinguished. The aim of this paper is to identify three different versions of typicality-based explanations of thermodynamic-like behaviour and evaluate their respective success. My conclusion is that the first two are unsuccessful because they fail to take the system’s dynamics into account. The third, however, is promising. I give a precise formulation of the proposal and present an argument in support of its central contention.
2009-01
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4441/1/Typicality_PSA.pdf
Frigg, Roman (2009) Typicality and the Approach to Equilibrium in Boltzmannian Statistical Mechanics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4475
2010-10-07T15:17:39Z
7375626A656374733D67656E:6465636973696F6E2D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D67656E:636175736174696F6E
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:7265616C69736D2D616E74692D7265616C69736D
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4475/
The Time-Asymmetry of Causation
Price, Huw
Weslake, Brad
Decision Theory
Causation
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Realism/Anti-realism
One of the most striking features of causation is that causes typically precede their effects – the causal arrow is strongly aligned with the temporal arrow. Why should this be so? We offer an opinionated guide to this problem, and to the solutions currently on offer. We conclude that the most promising strategy is to begin with the de facto asymmetry of human deliberation, characterised in epistemic terms, and to build out from there. More than any rival, this subjectivist approach promises to demystify the asymmetry, temporal orientation, and deliberative relevance of causal judgements.
2008-11
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4475/1/TimeAsymmetryOfCausation.pdf
Price, Huw and Weslake, Brad (2008) The Time-Asymmetry of Causation. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4537
2017-05-07T16:40:14Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:6D617468656D6174696373:504D70726F6F66
7375626A656374733D73706563:6368616F732D7468656F7279
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:6D617468656D6174696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4537/
Justifying Definitions in Mathematics—Going Beyond Lakatos
Werndl, Charlotte
Proof
Complex Systems
Classical Physics
Mathematics
Probability/Statistics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper addresses the actual practice of justifying definitions in mathematics. First, I introduce the main account of this issue, namely Lakatos's proof-generated definitions. Based on a case study of definitions of randomness in ergodic theory, I identify three other common ways of justifying definitions: natural-world-justification, condition-justification and redundancy-justification. Also, I clarify the interrelationships between the different kinds of justification. Finally, I point out how Lakatos's ideas are limited: they fail to show that various kinds of justification can be found and can be reasonable, and they fail to acknowledge the interplay between the different kinds of justification.
2009-03
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4537/1/Werndl_JustifyingDefinitionsMathematicsLakatos.pdf
Werndl, Charlotte (2009) Justifying Definitions in Mathematics—Going Beyond Lakatos. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4704
2010-10-07T15:18:09Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:64657465726D696E69736D2D696E64657465726D696E69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D636F6E666572656E63655F6974656D
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4704/
Toward a Mechanistic Interpretation of Probability
Abrams, Marshall
Probability/Statistics
Determinism/Indeterminism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
I sketch a new objective interpretation of probability, called "mechanistic probability", and more specifically what I call "far-flung frequency (FFF) mechanistic probability". FFF mechanistic probability is defined in terms of facts about the causal structure of devices and certain sets of collections of frequencies in the actual world. The relevant kind of causal structure is a generalization of what Strevens (2003) calls microconstancy. Though defined partly in terms of frequencies, FFF mechanistic probability avoids many drawbacks of well-known frequency theories. It at least partly explains stable frequencies, which will usually be close to the values of corresponding mechanistic probabilities; FFF mechanistic probability thus satisfies what in my view is a core desideratum for any objective interpretation. However, FFF mechanistic probabilities are not single case probabilities, and FFF mechanistic probability explains stable frequencies directly rather than by inference from combinations of single case probabilities.
2009
Conference or Workshop Item
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4704/1/AbramsMechanisticProbabilityConf061009.pdf
Abrams, Marshall (2009) Toward a Mechanistic Interpretation of Probability. In: UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4744
2010-10-07T15:18:15Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636F736D6F6C6F6779
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4744/
Gravity, entropy, and cosmology: in search of clarity
Wallace, David
Cosmology
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
I discuss the statistical mechanics of gravitating systems and in particular its cosmological implications, and argue that many conventional views on this subject in the foundations of statistical mechanics embody significant confusion; I attempt to provide a clearer and more accurate account. In particular, I observe that (i) the role of gravity IN entropy calculations must be distinguished from the entropy OF gravity, that (ii) although gravitational collapse is entropy-increasing, this is not usually because the collapsing matter itself increases in entropy, and that (iii) the Second Law of Thermodynamics does not owe its validity to the statistical mechanics of gravitational collapse.
2009-06
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4744/1/gravent_archive.pdf
application/postscript
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4744/2/gravent_archive.ps
tex-latex
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4744/3/gravent_archive.tex
Wallace, David (2009) Gravity, entropy, and cosmology: in search of clarity. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4924
2011-06-06T11:02:16Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:636C6173736963616C2D70687973696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:64657465726D696E69736D2D696E64657465726D696E69736D
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4924/
Are Deterministic Descriptions And Indeterministic Descriptions Observationally Equivalent?
Werndl, Charlotte
Classical Physics
Determinism/Indeterminism
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The central question of this paper is: are deterministic and indeterministic descriptions observationally equivalent in the sense that they give the same predictions? I tackle this question for measure-theoretic deterministic systems and stochastic processes, both of which are ubiquitous in science. I first show that for many measure-theoretic deterministic systems there is a stochastic process which is observationally equivalent to the deterministic system. Conversely, I show that for all stochastic processes there is a measure-theoretic deterministic system which is observationally equivalent to the stochastic process. Still, one might guess that the measure-theoretic deterministic systems which are observationally equivalent to stochastic processes used in science do not include any deterministic systems used in science. I argue that this is not so because deterministic systems used in science even give rise to Bernoulli processes. Despite this, one might guess that measure-theoretic deterministic systems used in science cannot give the same predictions at every observation level as stochastic processes used in science. By proving results in ergodic theory, I show that also this guess is misguided: there are several deterministic systems used in science which give the same predictions at every observation level as Markov processes. All these results show that measure-theoretic deterministic systems and stochastic processes are observationally equivalent more often than one might perhaps expect. Furthermore, I criticise the claims of the previous philosophy papers Suppes (1993, 1999), Suppes and de Barros (1996) and Winnie (1998) on observational equivalence.
2009-08
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4924/1/DeterminismVersusIndeterminism.pdf
Werndl, Charlotte (2009) Are Deterministic Descriptions And Indeterministic Descriptions Observationally Equivalent? [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4958
2010-10-07T15:18:50Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:6669656C64732D616E642D7061727469636C6573
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4958/
Understanding the Time-Asymmetry of Radiation
North, Jill
Fields and Particles
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
I discuss the nature of the puzzle about the time-asymmetry of radiation and argue that its most common formulation is flawed. As a result, many proposed solutions fail to solve the real problem. I discuss a recent proposal of Mathias Frisch as an example of the tendency to address the wrong problem. I go on to suggest that the asymmetry of radiation, like the asymmetry of thermodynamics, results from the initial state of the universe.
2003-12
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4958/1/PSA_Radiation.pdf
North, Jill (2003) Understanding the Time-Asymmetry of Radiation. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:4959
2010-10-07T15:18:50Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4959/
What is the Problem about the Time-Asymmetry of Thermodynamics?--A Reply to Price
North, Jill
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Huw Price argues that there are two conceptions of the puzzle of the time-asymmetry of thermodynamics. He thinks this puzzle has remained unsolved for so long partly due to a misunderstanding about which of these conceptions is the right one and what form a solution ought to take. I argue that it is Price’s understanding of the problem which is mistaken. Further, it is on the basis of this and other misunderstandings that he disparages a type of account which does, in fact, hold promise of a solution.
2002-03
Other
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/4959/1/Reply_Price.pdf
North, Jill (2002) What is the Problem about the Time-Asymmetry of Thermodynamics?--A Reply to Price. UNSPECIFIED.
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:5005
2010-10-07T15:18:57Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5005/
The H-Theorem, Molecular Disorder and Probability: Perspectives from Boltzmann’s Lectures on Gas Theory
Parker, Daniel
Probability/Statistics
Physics
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
This paper examines Boltzmann’s responses to the Loschmidt reversibility objection to the H-theorem, as presented in his Lectures on Gas Theory. I describe and evaluate two distinct conceptions of the assumption of molecular disorder found in this work, and contrast these notions with the Stosszahlansatz, as well as with the predominant contemporary conception of molecular disorder. Both these conceptions are assessed with respect to the reversibility objection. Finally, I interpret Boltzmann as claiming that a state of molecular disorder serves as a necessary condition for the application of probabilistic arguments. This in turn offers a way to bridge the conceptual gap between the H-theorem and his combinatorial argument.
2009-11
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5005/1/BoltzmannMD.pdf
Parker, Daniel (2009) The H-Theorem, Molecular Disorder and Probability: Perspectives from Boltzmann’s Lectures on Gas Theory. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:5010
2010-10-07T15:18:57Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5010/
Aspects of Information in Physics
Rosinger, Elemer Elad
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
Two somewhat overlooked aspects of information, namely, total involvement and simultaneous presence, are presented, aspects that may be useful in theories of Physics.
2009-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5010/1/aspects_of_information_in_physics.pdf
Rosinger, Elemer Elad (2009) Aspects of Information in Physics. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:5025
2010-10-07T15:19:00Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D706974747072657072696E74
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5025/
Thermodynamic Constraints on Fluctuation Phenomena
Maroney, Owen
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
The relationships between reversible Carnot cycles, the absence of perpetual motion machines and the existence of a non-decreasing, globally unique entropy function forms the starting point of many textbook presentations of the foundations of thermodynamics. However, the thermal fluctuation phenomena associated with statistical mechanics has been argued to restrict the domain of validity of this basis of the second law of thermodynamics. Here we demonstrate that fluctuation phenomena can be incorporated into the traditional presentation, extending, rather than restricting, the domain of validity of the phenomenologically motivated second law. Consistency conditions lead to constraints upon the possible spectrum of thermal fluctuations. In a special case this uniquely selects the Gibbs canonical distribution and more generally incorporates the Tsallis distributions. No particular model of microscopic dynamics need be assumed.
2009-12
Preprint
NonPeerReviewed
application/pdf
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5025/1/thdynfluc.pdf
Maroney, Owen (2009) Thermodynamic Constraints on Fluctuation Phenomena. [Preprint]
oai:philsci-archive.pitt.edu:5042
2010-10-07T15:19:00Z
7375626A656374733D73706563:70726F626162696C6974792D73746174697374696373
7375626A656374733D67656E:6C6177732D6F662D6E6174757265
7375626A656374733D73706563:70687973696373:737461746973746963616C2D6D656368616E6963732D746865726D6F64796E616D696373
74797065733D6F74686572
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5042/
Laws About Frequencies
Roberts, John T.
Probability/Statistics
Laws of Nature
Statistical Mechanics/Thermodynamics
A law about frequencies would be a law of nature that imposes a constraint on one or more (actual, global) frequencies. On any of the leading philosophical approaches to laws of nature, there could be laws about frequencies. Hypotheses that posit laws about frequencies turn out to behave very similarly to hypotheses that posit corresponding laws about probabilities or chances -- they make the same predictions, provide similar explanations, and are confirmed or disconfirmed by empirical evidence in the same ways. This makes it interesting to consider the possibility of interpreting probabilistic laws from scientific theories as laws about frequencies. This is surprising proposal, but I argue that the resulting view (which I call 'nomic frequentism') is able to overcome all of the standard objections to frequentist interpretation of objective probabilities.
2009
Other
NonPeerReviewed
doc
en
https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/5042/1/Laws_About_Frequencies-2.doc
Roberts, John T. (2009) Laws About Frequencies. UNSPECIFIED.
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