The Concept of Probability in Statistical Physics

A most systematic study of how to interpret probabilistic assertions in the context of statistical mechanics.

Y. M. Guttmann (Author)

9780521042178, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 24 September 2007

280 pages
22.9 x 15.4 x 1.7 cm, 0.427 kg

'… it will become the standard reference for philosophers of science on foundational questions of statistical physics and related matters. It will be likewise useful as an advanced textbook.' Jan von Plato, author of Creating Modern Probability

Foundational issues in statistical mechanics and the more general question of how probability is to be understood in the context of physical theories are both areas that have been neglected by philosophers of physics. This book fills an important gap in the literature by providing a most systematic study of how to interpret probabilistic assertions in the context of statistical mechanics. The book explores both subjectivist and objectivist accounts of probability, and takes full measure of work in the foundations of probability theory, in statistical mechanics, and in mathematical theory. It will be of particular interest to philosophers of science, physicists and mathematicians interested in foundational issues, and also to historians of science.

Introduction
1. The Neo-Laplacian approach to statistical mechanics
2. Subjectivism and the Ergodic approach
3. The Haar measure
4. Measure and topology in statistical mechanics
5. Three solutions
Appendix I: mathematical preliminaries
Appendix II: on the foundations of probability
Appendix III: probability in non-equilibrium statistical mechanics
Author index
Subject index.

Subject Areas: Philosophy: logic [HPL]