Topics in Philosophy of Physics - B

Introduction to Quantum Gravity. The course is meant to initiate the students to the path toward the construction of a quantum theory of gravity, from a conceptual perspective. The course is divided in three conceptual units. The first part of the course is devoted to review concepts of modern physics (quantum theory and relativity) focusing on the theory interpretation and those aspects that are expected to carry on in a successive theory of quantum gravity. The second part of the course delve into the structure of Loop Quantum Gravity as a concrete example of a quantum theory of gravity, analyzing the novelty and the challenges. In the third and final part of the course we will discuss broader questions raised in quantum gravity, the merit of different proposals, their empirical adequacy and role of Bayesian validation in moving research forward. In the course, no previous knowledge of physics is assumed beyond the standard high-school curriculum. On the other hand, students with a background in physics and philosophy of science will be offered with opportunities to challenge their previous knowledge.

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