String and M-Theory: Answering the Critics [Book Review]

Foundations of Physics 43 (1):182-200 (2013)
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Abstract

Using as a springboard a three-way debate between theoretical physicist Lee Smolin, philosopher of science Nancy Cartwright and myself, I address in layman’s terms the issues of why we need a unified theory of the fundamental interactions and why, in my opinion, string and M-theory currently offer the best hope. The focus will be on responding more generally to the various criticisms. I also describe the diverse application of string/M-theory techniques to other branches of physics and mathematics which render the whole enterprise worthwhile whether or not “a theory of everything” is forthcoming

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Citations of this work

The role of heuristic appraisal in conflicting assessments of string theory.Kristian Camilleri & Sophie Ritson - 2015 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part B: Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics 51:44-56.
Holography, application, and string theory's changing nature.Lauren Greenspan - 2022 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part A 94 (C):72-86.

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