Thought Experiments

Thought experiments are a philosophical and scientific tool that involves imagining scenarios to explore ideas and test hypotheses. This book provides an introduction to thought experimenting, discusses different approaches, and highlights their strengths and weaknesses. It also introduces the concept of "mental modeling" and proposes a way to respond to criticism from experimental philosophers. The book connects the systematic investigation of experimenting to the historical work of famous thought experiments and is of interest to scholars in the history of ideas and philosophy of science.

Format: Hardback
Length: 130 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book provides a thorough and accessible introduction to the realm of thought experimentation in philosophy, science, mathematics, and linguistics. It delves into the diverse range of approaches to understanding thought experiments, encompassing empiricism and Platonism, while also offering fresh perspectives on the topic.

In the first chapter, the book offers a novel definition and analysis of thought experimentation, drawing parallels with laboratory experimentation. This new perspective enhances our understanding of thought experiments and their role in scientific inquiry.

Chapter two builds upon the author's earlier theory of "mental modeling," which was proposed decades ago by the author and other researchers in the field. Mental modeling is considered a crucial procedure in thought experimenting, as it enables individuals to simulate and explore different mental scenarios. This approach connects thought experimentation to cognitive science and research on mental simulation, which is a hot topic in contemporary research.

Chapter three presents a principled way to address criticism of thought experimenting, which has been largely dominated by "experimental philosophers" in recent debates. The response suggests a potential ameliorative project for thought experimenting, aimed at improving its effectiveness and credibility.

Finally, the book offers a systematic approach to organizing the history of significant thought experiments in science and philosophy. By connecting the systematic investigation of experimentation to the historical work of famous thought experiments, the book provides a unique perspective on the evolution of ideas and the development of scientific and philosophical thought.

This book is of interest to scholars engaged in the history of ideas and the philosophy of science, as it offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of thought experimentation across various disciplines.

Weight: 383g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030810818
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022