| Course: | LPS/Phil 141D/241 |
| Name: | Probability and Determinism |
| Description: | The course will examine a cluster of
interrelated issues concerning probability, determinism, logic, and the foundations
of quantum mechanics. After reviewing basic ideas of probability theory and
determinism, we will first carefully analyze (versions of) "Bell's theorem".
These can be understood to show the impossibility of reconciling determinism
with "locality" in microphysics. They can also be taken to show that "quantum
probability" is non-standard, i.e., not in conformity with the characterization
of probability given by Kolmogorov. After that we will consider certain controversial
claims of Hilary Putnam about the connection between probability and logic
in quantum mechanics. (It was Putnam's view, at least at one time, that "quantum
probability" is standard, but "quantum logic" is not.) The course will not presuppose any specific course work in physics, but will take for granted familiarity with formal logic (LPS 30 or its equivalent), and basic undergraduate mathematics (at least calculus and linear algebra). More advanced prior training in mathematics and/or physics will certainly be helpful. More information and a syllabus is available on the course website. |