Theory and Ontology: Understanding Physical Theories and Ontological Frameworks

This lecture delves into the relationship between physical theories and empirical data, exploring the historical context of logical empiricism and its impact on the philosophy of science. It discusses the need for bridge principles to connect theoretical statements with empirical observations, using examples from the philosophy of science. The shortcomings of standard quantum mechanics in providing a clear ontology are highlighted, contrasting it with Newtonian Mechanics' explicit ontology of particles in space. The importance of ontology in shaping scientific theories and the challenges of defining observable entities are also addressed, emphasizing the role of empirical evidence in validating theories and their ontological assumptions.