Husserl, the mathematization of nature, and the informational reconstruction of quantum theory

Continental Philosophy Review 54 (4):413-436 (2020)
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Abstract

As is well known, the late Husserl warned against the dangers of reifying and objectifying the mathematical models that operate at the heart of our physical theories. Although Husserl’s worries were mainly directed at Galilean physics, the first aim of our paper is to show that many of his critical arguments are no less relevant today. By addressing the formalism and current interpretations of quantum theory, we illustrate how topics surrounding the mathematization of nature come to the fore naturally. Our second aim is to consider the program of reconstructing quantum theory, a program that currently enjoys popularity in the field of quantum foundations. We will conclude by arguing that, seen from this vantage point, certain insights delivered by phenomenology and quantum theory regarding perspectivity are remarkably concordant. Our overall hope with this paper is to show that there is much room for mutual learning between phenomenology and modern physics.

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Author Profiles

Philipp Berghofer
University of Graz
Harald A. Wiltsche
Linkoping University
Philip Goyal
State University of New York, Albany

Citations of this work

From Phenomenological-Hermeneutical Approaches to Realist Perspectivism.Mahdi Khalili - 2022 - European Journal for Philosophy of Science 12 (4):1-26.
Reality in Perspectives.Mahdi Khalili - 2022 - Dissertation, Vu University Amsterdam
Defending the quantum reconstruction program.Philipp Berghofer - 2024 - European Journal for Philosophy of Science 14 (3):1-32.

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References found in this work

Logical Investigations.Edmund Husserl - 1970 - London, England: Routledge. Edited by Dermot Moran.
Cartesian meditations.Edmund Husserl - 1960 - [The Hague]: M. Nijhoff.
Scientific perspectivism.Ronald N. Giere - 2006 - Chicago: University of Chicago Press.

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