Symmetry Principles in Quantum Physics

Luciano Fonda, G. C. Ghirardi

Otávio Bueno

In this paper, I argue that symmetry principles in physics (in particular, in quantum mechanics) have a methodological character, rather than an ontological or an epistemological one. First, I provide a framework to address three related issues regarding the notion of symmetry: (i) how the notion can be characterized; (ii) one way of discussing the nature of symmetry principles, and (iii) a tentative account of some types of symmetry in physics. To illustrate how the framework functions, I then consider the case of the early formulation of quantum mechanics, examining the different roles played by symmetry in this context. Finally, I raise difficulties for ontological and purely epistemological interpretations of symmetry principles, and offer a methodological alternative.

J.P. Elliott, P. G. Dawber

Philip Warren Anderson

Basic principles I - broken symmetry basic principles II - adiabatic continuity and renormalization solids, quantum and otherwise uses of the idea of the renormalization group in many-body physics broken symmetry topology Bose systems quantum solids renormalization group.

Congjun Wu

Symmetry distills the simplicity of natural laws from the complexity of physical phenomena. The symmetry principle is of vital importance in various aspects of modern physics, including analyzing atomic spectra, determining fundamental interactions in the Standard Model, and unifying physics at different energy scales. In this chapter, novel applications of this principle are reviewed in condensed matter physics and cold atom physics for exploring new states of matter.

Tapan Kumar Das