Customer Reviews

Probability and Confirmation (Philosophy of Science)

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This modest-sized book is an excellent introduction to major concepts of modern physics and philosophical problems that they present or help solve. Sklar does a wonderful job describing a multitude of philosophical issues in less than 300 pages. Differently from some texts aimed at undergraduates, this book does not waste space "sugar coating" the material (such as author's witty comments etc.). The text in densely packed with information.

As a physics student I sometimes found it frustrating that many physical concepts and results are presented but not explained. Sklar refers to many proofs, but rarely describes any specifics of the argument. That is acceptable - considering that the book does not aim to prove any point - and probably desirable for people without physical education. For those who crave the details, references are given for most arguments.

Basically, this book is an excellent starting point for someone interested in philosophical issues related to the physical sciences. It will give you an understanding of what the real problems are, and which questions have already been resolved. "Further readings" at the end of each chapter are great (though not exhaustive) listings of works that deal with the problems presented in the chapter.