Physical reality - construction or discovery?: An introduction to the methodology and aims of physics

Abstract

This book provides a well-grounded account of the methodology of physics, the structure of physical knowledge and theories, and in particular of the relations between theory and experience. An important feature of the book is that all its essential conclusions are elucidated with the help of representative examples from theoretical, molecular and solid state physics. All young physicists as well as physics teachers will find here valuable insights into the philosophy and tools of their trade.