Philosophy of Physics I

Module description

This module will examine aspects of contemporary physics that bear on our philosophy of space, time, and matter. One part of the course will focus on special relativity and the four-dimensional geometry it proposes: we’ll consider the unification of space and time, its interpretation, and its consequences for the metaphysics of time. Another part of the course will focus on issues in thermal and statistical physics, including discussion of the arrow of time in thermodynamics, the reduction of thermodynamics to statistical mechanics, and issues in climate science. 

Assessment details

Summative assessment: 1 x 2,500-word essay (100%)

Formative assessment: 1 x 2,000-word essay.

Educational aims & objectives

This module will introduce students to the philosophy of physics by way of thinking about the physics of space, time, and matter. Students will be introduced to the conceptual foundations of spacetime theories and statistical and thermal theories of matter, and the epistemology of climate science.

Topics to be covered include the nature of space and time in Newtonian theories, the unification of space and time in special relativity, the consequences of special relativity for the metaphysics of time, phase transitions, the thermodynamic arrow of time, and the implications of chaos for our knowledge of climate systems. Along the way, students will learn how to approach foundational issues in physics, including how to consider the ontological commitments and conceptual basis of a theory.

Learning outcomes

Students will acquire intellectual, transferable and practical skills appropriate to a Level 5 module, in particular, they will have gained the following:

• Comfort in working with scientific theories and applying thoughts about physics to their philosophical work.
• A capacity for thinking critically about the content and interpretation of theories in physics.
• The ability to explain the conceptual content of physical theories in English.
• The ability to analyse and evaluate arguments in an unfamiliar scientific context.
• Writing and group presentation skills when dealing with conceptually complex materials.

Teaching pattern

One one-hour weekly lecture and one one-hour weekly seminar over ten weeks. 

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.