Determinism vs. Indeterminism: A Representational Issue
Analysis
This paper challenges the traditional view of determinism and indeterminism as fundamental ontological properties in physics. It argues that these are model-dependent features, and proposes a model-invariant ontology based on structural realism. The core idea is that only features stable across empirically equivalent representations should be considered real, thus avoiding problems like the measurement problem and the conflict between determinism and free will. This approach emphasizes the importance of focusing on the underlying structure of physical systems rather than the specific mathematical formulations used to describe them.
Key Takeaways
- •Determinism and indeterminism are model-dependent, not fundamental ontological properties.
- •A model-invariant ontology is proposed, focusing on structural features stable across empirically equivalent representations.
- •This approach aims to resolve problems like the measurement problem and the conflict between determinism and free will.
- •The focus should be on the underlying structure of physical systems, not specific mathematical formulations.
“The paper argues that the traditional opposition between determinism and indeterminism in physics is representational rather than ontological.”