metaphysical studies include ontology , cosmology , and often, epistemology . Related Topics: Philosophy Metaphysics is a type of philosophy or study that uses broad concepts to help define reality and our understanding

of quantum ontology. In this essay, McMullin limits his concern to the history of the relation between formalism and ontology in astronomy in order to show that similar difficulties arose throughout this history. First he

Ontology A branch of study concerned with the nature and relations of being, or things which exist. Ontological discussion concerns things as they actually are, often in contrast to questions of our knowledge of reality

the culture, metaphysics , ontology of physics, and the dialogue between faith and reason. Currently working on a manuscript on quantum cosmology entitled Real Time: Horizons and Parameters of Reflecting on Quantum Cosmology.

to quantum theory and ontology: the possibility of chaotic/fractal structures in quantum processes, and the status of the theoretical and mathematical terms in quantum theory (e.g., are they human invention or Platonic realities?). Ellis

how do you explain the ontology , the coming into being of free will? DR. DAWKINS: The question of free will is a profound philosophical problem. And, as I said before, nothing is changed by adding the word "genes." So you could

quantum mechanics. Its ontology depicts particles following definite trajectories that are completely deterministic and observer-independent. The ontology, however, is nonlocal: instantaneous, long-range influences are included. Still

an underlying, deterministic ontology; the implications of his approach for a philosohy of nature and for theology have received some attention. It is also important to recognize that all of these interpretations challenge classical ontology, with

then this points towards an ontology which he calls “being-in- relation.” Moreover, such an ontology is partially congruent with evolutionary biology , including its stress on cooperative, coadaptive, symbiotic, and ecological relations.

Ernan. “Formalism and Ontology in Early Astronomy." Email link | Printer-friendly | Feedback | Contributed by: CTNS /Vatican Observatory