Peter SmithCambridge University Press, 8/21/2008EAN 9780521477475, ISBN10: 0521477476Paperback, 204 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 1.1 cmLanguage: EnglishChaotic dynamics has been hailed as the third great scientific revolution in physics this century, comparable to relativity and quantum mechanics. In this book, Peter Smith takes a cool, critical look at such claims. He cuts through the hype and rhetoric by explaining some of the basic mathematical ideas in a clear and accessible way, and by carefully discussing the methodological issues which arise. In particular, he explores the new kinds of explanation of empirical phenomena which modern dynamics can deliver. Explaining Chaos will be compulsory reading for philosophers of science and for anyone who has wondered about the conceptual foundations of chaos theory.1. Chaos introduced2. Fractal intricacy3. Intricacy and simplicity4. Predictions5. Approximate truth6. Universality7. Explanation8. Worldly chaos9. Randomness10. Defining chaos.
