CHAPTER 6. Heisenberg's False Foundations, 1939

Paul Lawrence Rose

Paul Lawrence Rose

Paul Lawrence Rose

Anthony Duncan A, Michel Janssen B

Abstract This chapter covers the paper known as the Umdeutung (= reinterpretation) paper, published in July 1925, with which Heisenberg laid the foundations of matrix mechanics. It carefully examines Heisenberg’s work on intensities and his correspondence in the months leading up to his famous trip to Helgoland, where he aimed to recover from poor health. It was in Helgoland that he developed the outlines of the new framework that would eventually become matrix mechanics. The chapter then gives a detailed analysis of the Umdeutung paper itself, including the quantization condition, as well as a derivation of the quantized energies of the simple harmonic oscillator, including the zero-point energy, both of which would assume a central role in the paper.

Laura Ruetsche

Abstract This stage-setting chapter reviews past developments and previews coming attractions. The review is an opinionated account of the scientific realism debate, one attentive to how attitudes toward the project of interpreting physical theories implicate, and are implicated by, positions in the debate. Two foundations of physics controversies where appeals to Renormalization Group considerations loom large are ongoing. One controversy concerns the role of apparently false assumptions in explaining critical phenomena, such as phase transitions. Another controversy concerns how to interpret, and whether to believe, the interacting quantum field theories making up the Standard Model of particle physics. Close attention to those controversies could afford traction on sweeping questions of scientific realism. This chapter’s preview of coming attractions will sketch the controversies, and try to indicate where the traction comes from, and where it might lead.

Leonard Eisenbud