This book studies the mathematization of physics, with a special emphasis on 18th century electrostatics as a case study. The mathematization of a scientific field is a fruitful yet underdeveloped topic that can be seen through different lenses. A noticeable one is the Inferential Conception proposed by Mark Colyvan and Otávio Bueno. In this regard, the use of mathematics is understood as a set of mappings relating the physical realm and the mathematical realm. However, the historical process related to the use of mathematics remains unsolved; philosophical frameworks usually have a hard time dealing with historical dimensionality. Therefore, this book provides a study of the historical process of mathematization going beyond the framework in order to explain the use of mathematics a-historically, using the aforementioned investigation of 18th century electrostatics. The research developed gravitates around two centers; the history of physics and the philosophy of science, making the book of equal importance to both historians and philosophers of science.

Autorentext

Lucas Marcelo Cavalari Nardi has a Ph.D. in the History of Physics, with a special focus on the mathematization process. His work has ramifications on the Philosophy of Science, which constitutes one of his areas of interest; the History of Science is another area he is interested in and acquainted with. He has a degree in Physics and a graduate course in History of Science. He is also fluent in English and French.

Inhalt

1 Introduction.- 2 Towards a philosophy of mathematization.- 3 Johann Euler's mathematization.- 4 Franz Aepinus' mathematization.- 5 Charles-Augustin Coulomb's mathematization.- 6 Conclusions.- A-1 Notes on the translation of Haüy's book about Aepinus' theory of electricity.- A-2 Translation.