Forces and Fields: The Concept of Action at a Distance in the History of Physics

Book Details

• Author: Mary B. Hesse

• Publisher: Dover

• ISBN: 9780486442402

• Pages: 336

• Binding: Paperback

• Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.0 inches

• Languages: English

• Release Date: 17-06-2005

About The Book
Forces and Fields provides a historical examination of physics, specifically focusing on the question, "How do bodies act on one another across space?" Mary B. Hesse traces the development of this question through ancient Greek philosophy, 17th-century natural philosophy, and modern physics. The book highlights the role of fundamental analogies and models in scientific theories, as well as the significance of unobservable entities.

Hesse explores the philosophical roots of physical thought, starting with ancient philosophers like Aristotle and continuing through to the development of concepts such as gravitation and relativity. She also provides an in-depth look at the influence of antique philosophy on the scientific revolution, especially how later physicists built upon Greek ideas.

In addition, the book delves into critical topics of modern physics, such as the empirical foundations of quantum mechanics, wave-particle duality, and the uncertainty principle, culminating with a discussion on the action-at-a-distance theory by Wheeler and Feynman.

Whether you're a history of science enthusiast or a student of physics, Forces and Fields offers valuable insights into the evolution of key concepts in physics and their philosophical underpinnings.