Jun 25, 2018
On Strings and Loops: Shifting the Perspectives
- 14:00 to 16:00
- Seminar
- Max Planck Research Group (Final Theory Program)
- Milla Lifke (Bielefeld University)
The practice of physics is shaped by experiences and expectations. Physicists and philosophers of science alike are tempted to evaluate scientific achievements by relating them to successfully tested predictions. However, some contemporary research programs at the physical frontiers refuse to be rated based on their power to predict testable phenomena. Without the crucial link to the natural world other criteria of evaluation must be considered. Recently, a shift of strategies for theory assessment was proposed as an explanation to why large numbers of physicists are attracted by string research. However, historical accounts have already indicated shifting practices of theoretical physics including string theoretical research.
This talk is based on a freshly finished MA thesis.
Contact and Registration
No registration necessary. For further information please contact Kseniia Mohelsky.
About This Series
The seminar series of the Research Group “Historical Epistemology of the Final Theory Program” runs once a month, usually on a Monday at 14:30 in the seminar room of the Villa (Harnackstraße 5). The talks deal primarily with the history, philosophy, and foundations of modern (post-WWII) physics or with wider epistemological questions related to the work of the group. There are no pre-circulated papers.