Complementarity Beyond Physics

In this study Arun Bala examines the implications that Niels Bohr's principle of complementarity holds for fields beyond physics. Bohr, one of the founding figures of modern quantum physics, argued that the principle of complementarity he proposed for understanding atomic processes has parallels in psychology, biology, and social science, as well as in Buddhist and Taoist thought. But Bohr failed to offer any explanation for why complementarity might extend beyond physics, and his claims have been widely rejected by scientists as empty speculation. Scientific scepticism has only been reinforced by the naïve enthusiasm of postmodern relativists and New Age intuitionists, who seize upon Bohr's ideas to justify anti-realist and mystical positions.
Arun Bala offers a detailed defence of Bohr's claim that complementarity has far-reaching implications for the biological and social sciences, as well as for comparative philosophies of science, by explaining Bohr's parallels as responses to the omnipresence of grown properties in nature.

Rehabilitate certain ideas of Niels Bohr, by discussing how Bohr's principle of complementarity has implications well beyond quantum theory Investigates how Niels Bohr's notion of complementarity can illuminate traditional Chinese philosophy as well as shed light on some notions and problems of Buddhist epistemology Uses a defense of Niels Bohr's parallels to outline a new approach to comparative science studies

Auteur

Arun Bala is a physicist and philosopher of science. He is the author of The Dialogue of Civilizations in the Birth of Modern Science, the editor of Asia, Europe and the Emergence of Modern Science, and co-editor of The Bright Dark Ages: Comparative and Connective Perspectives. He has held teaching and visiting positions at the National University of Singapore as well as the University of Toronto, Western University, and Dalhousie University, Canada.

Contenu

1. Complementarity Beyond Physics.- 2. Biological Complementarity of the Molecular and Functional.- 3. Psychological Complementarity of Spectator and Actor.- 4. Anthropological Complementarity of the Natural and Cultural.- 5. Complementarity and Unity of Knowledge.