Zagadnienia Filozoficzne w Nauce (Dec 2023)

The applicability of the concept of the field of rationality in the explanation of the fundamental role of symmetries in physics

  • Wojciech Grygiel

DOI
https://doi.org/10.59203/zfn.75.640
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 75
pp. 185 – 209

Abstract

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The introduction of the concept of the field of rationality and its correlates (the field of potentiality and the formal field) by Józef Życiński and Michał (Michael) Heller opened up space for the philosophical explanation of the unreasonable effectiveness of mathematics in capturing regularities built into the physical reality. The presented study is a response to the clear incentive of these authors towards the development of the understanding and applicability of these concepts. It is argued that identifying symmetries within the field of rationality not only helps to articulate the fundamental role of symmetries in physics but also provides a better grasp on the issue of potentialities for the emergence of complexity in the Universe. Additionally, some global properties of this field can be more deeply comprehended. By indicating the drawbacks and limitations of this approach, perspectives for further inquiry into the meaning and usefulness are suggested.

Keywords