The function of interpretations in physics

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" The function of interpretations in physics "
Agassi, Joseph

Document Type	:	Latin Dissertation
Record Number	:	1097263
Doc. No	:	TLets505501
Main Entry	:	Agassi, Joseph
Title & Author	:	The function of interpretations in physics\ Agassi, Joseph
College	:	University of London
Date	:	1956
student score	:	1956
Degree	:	Ph.D.
Abstract	:	The present thesis is the first half of a work in which a theory is presented according to which metaphysical theories, world-views, are of great help to science, being interpretations of scientific theories and programmes for further research. The thory is presented within the framework of Popper's methodology which is explained and defended. The historical example which is given in the second part of the work is Faraday's world-view, his field theory. The first part is an attempt to reconstruct the intellectual background of Faraday's activity. Bacon's, Boyle's, and Newton's influence on the early nineteenth century thought are discussed. Bacon's radicalism and utopianism are discussed together with their theoretical justification - his doctrine of prejudice - and his influence is thus explained. Boyle is presented as the creator of a scientific movement of amateurs. Inductivism and mechanism are presented as the creed of the amateur inductivist movement. Mechanism, of Boyle and of Newton, is presented as a successful programme of research. All these points are discussed with a special reference to the theory of interpretations and to their influence on Faraday.
Added Entry	:	University of London