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A philosopher's guide to the foundations of quantum field theory
Author(s) -
Swanson Noel
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
philosophy compass
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.973
H-Index - 25
ISSN - 1747-9991
DOI - 10.1111/phc3.12414
Subject(s) - strengths and weaknesses , field (mathematics) , obstacle , epistemology , quantum field theory , theoretical physics , interpreter , management science , computer science , sociology , engineering ethics , physics , philosophy , mathematics , quantum mechanics , political science , engineering , pure mathematics , law , programming language
A major obstacle facing interpreters of quantum field theory (QFT) is a proliferation of different theoretical frameworks. This article surveys three of the main available options—Lagrangian, Wightman, and algebraic QFT—and examines how they are related. Although each framework emphasizes different aspects of QFT, leading to distinct strengths and weaknesses, there is less tension between them than commonly assumed. Given the limitations of our current knowledge and the need for creative new ideas, I urge philosophers to explore puzzles, tools, and techniques from all three approaches.