A Physicist's History of Bad Philosophy

This week we'll revisit The Beginning of Infinity to discuss Chapter 12 - A Physicist's History of Bad Philosophy.

This chapter explores what makes philosophy “bad", why explanations matter more than mere predictions, and how philosophical ideas have shaped, and sometimes obstructed, scientific progress. From instrumentalism and positivism, to the interpretation of quantum mechanics, Deutsch argues that bad philosophy doesn't just lead to mistaken conclusions; it can actively prevent the creation of new knowledge.

If this is your first time attending we meet in the cafe of the Barbican Cinema. Look for people with copies of The Beginning of Infinity.

Please read the chapter before attending.