Atomism / Atomistic Approach in Physics and Mathematics and Cultural Context

Authors

  • V. Vizgin

Abstract

At the round table (June, 18. 2014, Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences), the modern discourse on quantum physics – scientific and philosophical – was investigated in terms of atomistic as well as continuistic approaches. Participants discussed possibilities of con- necting humanities and physical science through (1) the introduction of metaphors which may help to identify the relationship between mathematical point and physical atom (watches and rulers were seen as generating images for the construction of physical space and time – V.V. Aris- tov), as well as (2) through the concept of weak connections allowing the transfer to the humani- ties of ideas initially developed in the context of physics (L.I. Manevich). Heisenberg’s approach to quantum mechanics was interpreted as a two-modes ontological scheme containing (1) being as possibility and (2) being as actuality (A.Yu. Sevalnikov). Plato’s atomism was compared to structural realism (E.A. Mamchur), and R. Feynman’s language of quantum-field diagrams –

to N. Chomsky’s generative grammar (V.G. Budanov). An attempt was made to explore the concept of discontinuity and continuity in terms of complexity theory (V.I. Arshinov). Modern quantum physics is presented as the successor of the “Aristotle’s line” as opposed to “ Plato’s line” and “Democritus’ line” (A.I. Lipkin). Round table participants also tackled some issues concerning (1) the assimilation of Western language of physics into other cultures (for example, that of modern China – M.V. Rubets), (2) the concepts of “discontinuity” and “continuity” in modern atomism (Yu.I. Manin) and (3) as well as the validity of the geometrical approach in XXth century physics.

Author Biography

  • V. Vizgin

    доктор философских наук 

Published

2020-04-13

Issue

Section

Статьи

How to Cite

[1]
2020. Atomism / Atomistic Approach in Physics and Mathematics and Cultural Context . Voprosy Filosofii. 5 (Apr. 2020), 131–157.