Why Gibbs Phase Averages Work—The Role of Ergodic Theory
Philosophy of Science 47 (3):339-349 (1980)
Abstract
We propose an "explanation scheme" for why the Gibbs phase average technique in classical equilibrium statistical mechanics works. Our account emphasizes the importance of the Khinchin-Lanford dispersion theorems. We suggest that ergodicity does play a role, but not the one usually assigned to itAuthor's Profile
DOI
10.1086/288941
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Citations of this work
Compendium of the foundations of classical statistical physics.Jos Uffink - 2005 - In Jeremy Butterfield & John Earman (eds.), Handbook of the Philosophy of Physics. Elsevier.
Probabilities in Statistical Mechanics.Wayne C. Myrvold - 2016 - In Christopher Hitchcock & Alan H’Ajek (eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Probability and Philosophy. Oxford: Oxford University Press. pp. 573-600.
What Are the New Implications of Chaos for Unpredictability?Charlotte Werndl - 2009 - British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 60 (1):195-220.
Epsilon-ergodicity and the success of equilibrium statistical mechanics.Peter B. M. Vranas - 1998 - Philosophy of Science 65 (4):688-708.
Entropy - A Guide for the Perplexed.Roman Frigg & Charlotte Werndl - 2011 - In Claus Beisbart & Stephan Hartmann (eds.), Probabilities in Physics. Oxford University Press. pp. 115-142.
References found in this work
Statistical explanation and ergodic theory.Lawrence Sklar - 1973 - Philosophy of Science 40 (2):194-212.
A partial vindication of ergodic theory.K. S. Friedman - 1976 - Philosophy of Science 43 (1):151-162.
The role of statistical mechanics in classical physics.David Lavis - 1977 - British Journal for the Philosophy of Science 28 (3):255-279.
A philosophical explanation of the explanatory functions of ergodic theory.S. J. Paul M. Quay - 1978 - Philosophy of Science 45 (1):47-59.
