Prof. Robert Koons discusses the alignment of quantum revolution with Aristotle's theories. They delve into forms in Plato and Aristotle, distinguishing token and type substances, and exploring the transition in quantum theory from finite to infinite systems. They also touch on the nature of integral parts and the connection between quantum particles and substances.
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insights INSIGHT
Infinite Models Allow Phase Distinction
Finite quantum models can't produce spontaneous symmetry breaking or distinct macroscopic phases; infinite models can.
Phase transitions and stable macroscopic distinctions point to real metaphysical differences.
insights INSIGHT
Chemical Form Preserves Molecular Identity
Chemical form explains persistence of chirality and molecular stability that finite quantum mechanics cannot.
Form grounds classification by natural kinds, persistence, and active/passive powers.
insights INSIGHT
Continuum Limit Is Metaphysically Real
Koons claims the continuum limit is ontologically real, not mere idealization, and validates Aristotle's continuous substances.
Substances are continuous yet possess virtual integral parts expressed by chemical form.
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This was one of the lectures from our 2019 Summer Science Conference, "Novelty in Nature: Scientific and Philosophical Understanding of Flux and Chance in the Natural World." For more info about upcoming TI events, visit: www.thomisticinstitute.org/events
The Hand Out for this lecture can be accessed here:
tinyurl.com/ru5axoe
Conference Theme:
Modern science consistently presents us with new and surprising truths about the natural world, particularly about how new things come to be, whether stars and galaxies, plants and animals, or chemical and physical structures. In many ways this creativity and flux in nature might seem antithetical to the classical picture of nature that Aquinas inherited from Aristotle. The theme for the second annual Thomistic Institute symposium on modern science and Thomistic philosophy, “Novelty in Nature: Scientific and Philosophical Understanding of Flux and Change in the Natural World,” touches on this question. Expert scientists and philosophers will discuss whether Thomistic philosophy is compatible with our modern scientific view of nature and how the two might enrich one another. The symposium is primarily intended for graduate students in the sciences and the philosophy of science and will include introductory sessions on basic of Thomistic philosophy of nature in its own day and in the history of science.
2019 Featured Speakers:
Karin Oberg (Harvard University), Robert Koons, (University of Texas), Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, (Providence College), Marissa March (University of Pennsylvania), Fr. James Brent, OP, (Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception), Thomas McLaughlin (St. John Vianny Theological Seminary), Matthew Gaetano (Hillsdale College), Dr. Brian Carl (Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception).
The Thomistic Institute 