Einstein Albert - Einstein

Albert Einstein (18791955) was the most influential physicist of the 20th century. Less well known is that fundamental philosophical problems, such as concept formation, the role of epistemology in developing and explaining the character of physical theories, and the debate between positivism and realism, played a central role in his thought as a whole.

Thomas Ryckman shows that already at the beginning of his career at a time when the twin pillars of classical physics, Newtonian mechanics and Maxwells electromagnetism, were known to have but limited validity Einstein sought to advance physical theory by positing certain physical principles as secure footholds. That philosophy produced his greatest triumph, the general theory of relativity, and his greatest failure, an unwillingness to accept quantum mechanics. This book shows that Einsteins philosophy grew from a lifelong aspiration for a unified theoretical representation encompassing all physical phenomena. It also considers how Einsteins theories of relativity and criticisms of quantum theory shaped the course of 20th-century philosophy of science.

Including a chronology, glossary, chapter summaries, and suggestions for further reading, Einstein is an ideal introduction to this iconic figure in 20th-century science and philosophy. It is essential reading for students of philosophy of science, and is also suitable for those working in related areas such as physics, history of science, or intellectual history.

Thomas Ryckman is Professor of Philosophy at Stanford University, USA. He is author of The Reign of Relativity: Philosophy in Physics 19151925 (2005).

Edited by Brian Leiter

University of Chicago

Routledge Philosophers is a major series of introductions to the great Western philosophers. Each book places a major philosopher or thinker in historical context, explains and assesses their key arguments, and considers their legacy. Additional features include a chronology of major dates and events, chapter summaries, annotated suggestions for further reading, and a glossary of technical terms.

An ideal starting point for those new to philosophy, they are also essential reading for those interested in the subject at any level.

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2017 Thomas Ryckman

The right of Thomas Ryckman to be identified as author of this work has been asserted by him in accordance with sections 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

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British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data

A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Ryckman, Thomas, author.
Title: Einstein / by Thomas Ryckman.
Description: 1 [edition]. | New York : Routledge, 2017. |
Series: Routledge philosophers | Includes bibliographical
references and index.
Identifiers: LCCN 2016056482 | ISBN 9780415773263 (hardback:
alk. paper) | ISBN 9780415773270 (pbk.: alk. paper) |
ISBN 9781315175829 (e-book)
Subjects: LCSH: Einstein, Albert, 18791955. | PhysicistsBiography. |
Relativity (Physics) | Special relativity (Physics) | Quantum theory.
Classification: LCC QC16.E5 R93 2017 | DDC 530.092 [B]dc23
LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2016056482

ISBN: 978-0-415-77326-3 (hbk)

ISBN: 978-0-415-77327-0 (pbk)

ISBN: 978-1-315-17582-9 (ebk)

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