PHIL-4360

Philosophical Problems of Space and Time

Relevant aspects of the work of Kant, Leibniz, and Newton; Gauss, Riemann, and Poincare; Faraday, Maxwell, and Einstein. Special attention is given to the historical development of non-Euclidean geometries and the distinction between mathematical and physical geometry. Ultimately, the aim is to clarify the conceptual structure of special and general relativity by showing the problem context in which they evolved. Prerequisite: PHIL-2130 or permission of instructor. Spring term annually.

4 credit hours