The study of the physical world had its origins in philosophy, and, two-and-one-half millennia later, the scientific advances of the twentieth century are bringing the two fields closer together again. So argues Lawrence Sklar in this brilliant new text on the philosophy of physics.Aimed at students of both disciplines, Philosophy of Physics is a broad overview of the problems of contemporary philosophy of physics that readers of all levels of sophistication should find accessible and engaging. Professor Sklar's talent for clarity and accuracy is on display throughout as he guides students through the key problems: the nature of space and time, the problems of probability and irreversibility in statistical mechanics, and, of course, the many notorious problems raised by quantum mechanics.Integrated by the theme of the interconnectedness of philosophy and science, and linked by many references to the history of both disciplines, Philosophy of Physics is always clear, while remaining faithful to the complexity and integrity of the issues. It will take its place as a classic text in a field of fundamental intellectual importance.
Part One: Conceptual Analysis and Political Theories, 1 What Are Political Concepts?, 2 Conceptual Disputes, 3 Political Theories: Conceptual Structures and Enduring Types, Part Two Political Concepts, 4 Negative and Positive Liberty, 5 Liberty and Power, 6 Equality, 7 Equality and Liberty in Political Theories, 8 Justice and Liberalism, 9 Justice, Society, and Community, 10 Political Authority, Concluding Remarks: From Political Concepts to Political Theories