ABSTRACT

Current Controversies in Philosophy of Science asks twelve philosophers to debate six questions that are driving contemporary work in this area of philosophy. The questions are:

I. Are Boltzmann Brains Bad?

II. Does Mathematical Explanation Require Mathematical Truth?

III. Does Quantum Mechanics Suggest Spacetime is Nonfundamental?

IV. Is Evolution Fundamental When It Comes to Defining Biological Ontology?

V. Is Chance Ontologically Fundamental?

VI. Are Sexes Natural Kinds?

These debates explore the philosophical foundations of particular scientific disciplines, while also examining more general issues in the philosophy of science. The result is a book that’s perfect for the advanced philosophy student, building up their knowledge of the foundations of the field and engaging with its cutting-edge questions. Preliminary descriptions of each chapter, annotated lists of further readings for each controversy, and study questions for each chapter help provide clearer and richer snapshots of active controversies for all readers.              

chapter |4 pages

Introduction

part I|32 pages

Are Boltzmann Brains Bad?

part II|24 pages

Does Mathematical Explanation Require Mathematical Truth?

part III|30 pages

Does Quantum Mechanics Suggest Spacetime is Nonfundamental?

part IV|30 pages

Is Evolution Fundamental When It Comes to Defining Biological Ontology?

part V|40 pages

Is Chance Ontologically Fundamental?

chapter 9|20 pages

Chance and the Great Divide

chapter |1 pages

Study Questions for Part V

part VI|38 pages

Are Sexes Natural Kinds?