[Vision2020] 8-10-21 Foundations of Science: "Physics is Organized Around Transformations Connecting Contextures in a Polycontextural World"

[Ted Moffett]

Vision2020 Post: Ted Moffett
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https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10699-021-09814-0

Abstract

The rich body of physical theories defines the foundation of our
understanding of the world. Its mathematical formulation is based on
classical Aristotelian (binary) logic. In the philosophy of science the
ambiguities, paradoxes, and the possibility of subjective interpretations
of facts have challenged binary logic, leading, among other developments,
to Gotthard Günther’s theory of polycontexturality (often also termed
’transclassical logic’). Günther’s theory explains how observers with
subjective perception can become aware of their own subjectivity and
provides means to describe contradicting or even paradox observations in a
logically sound formalism. Here we summarize the formalism behind Günther’s
theory and apply it to two well-known examples from physics where different
observers operate in distinct and only locally valid logical systems. Using
polycontextural logic we show how the emerging awareness of these
limitations of logical systems entails the design of mathematical
transformations, which then become an integral part of the theory. In our
view, this approach offers a novel perspective on the structure of physical
theories and, at the same time, emphasizes the relevance of the theory of
polycontexturality in modern sciences.
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