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An Introduction to the Philosophy of Engineering: I Create, Therefore I Am (Philosophy of Engineering and Technology #39)
by Bocong LiThis book is the first academic work on the philosophy of engineering in China that reflects two decades of research. It puts forward a new thesis, namely that the core maxim in the philosophy of engineering is “I create, therefore I am,” which is radically different from the Cartesian maxim: “I think, therefore I am.” In addition, the book offers the first detailed portrait of the roots and evolution of the philosophy of engineering in China. The book begins by discussing the triptych thesis of science, technology and engineering, which argues that there are a number of important distinctions between the three, e.g. scientific activities are chiefly based on discovery, while technological activities center on invention, and engineering activities focus on creation. Considering the latest developments in the philosophy of engineering, the author also analyzes engineering communities, engineering practice and a micro–meso–macro framework. In subsequent chapters, the author separately analyzes the three stages of engineering activities: planning, operating and using artifacts. In the closing chapter, two views on the philosophy of engineering (as a new subdiscipline of philosophy and as a philosophy in its own right) are briefly explained.
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science
by Kent W. StaleyThis book guides readers by gradual steps through the central concepts and debates in the philosophy of science. Using concrete examples from the history of science, Kent W. Staley shows how seemingly abstract philosophical issues are relevant to important aspects of scientific practice. Structured in two parts, the book first tackles the central concepts of the philosophy of science, such as the problem of induction, falsificationism, and underdetermination, and important figures and movements, such as the logical empiricists, Thomas Kuhn, and Paul Feyerabend. The second part turns to contemporary debates in the philosophy of science, such as scientific realism, explanation, the role of values in science, the different views of scientific inference, and probability. This broad yet detailed overview will give readers a strong grounding whilst also providing opportunities for further exploration. It will be of particular interest to students of philosophy, the philosophy of science, and science.
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science
by Rudolf CarnapOne of the most creative philosophers of the 20th century, Rudolf Carnap presented a series of science lectures at the University of California in 1958. The present volume is an outgrowth of that seminar, which dealt with the philosophical foundations of physics. Edited by Martin Gardner from transcripts of Carnap's classroom lectures and discussions, the book remains one of the clearest and soundest introductions to the philosophy of science.Specially designed to appeal to a wide range of readers, An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science offers accessible coverage of such topics as laws and probability, measurement and quantitative language, the structure of space, causality and determinism, theoretical laws and concepts and much more. Stimulating and thought-provoking, the text will be of interest to philosophers, scientists and anyone interested in logical analysis of the concepts, statements and theories of science. Foreword to the Basic Books Paperback Edition, 1974 (Gardner); Preface (Carnap); Foreword to the Dover Edition (Gardner). 35 black-and-white illustrations. Bibliography.
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science (Cambridge Introductions to Philosophy)
by Kent W. StaleyThis thoroughly updated second edition guides readers through the central concepts and debates in the philosophy of science. Using concrete examples from the history of science, Kent W. Staley addresses questions about what science is, why it is important, and the basis for trust in scientific results. The first part of the book introduces the central concepts of philosophy of science, with updated discussions of the problem of induction, underdetermination, rationality, scientific progress, and important movements such as falsificationism, logical empiricism, and postpositivism, together with a new chapter on social constructionism. The second part offers updated chapters on probability, scientific realism, explanation, and values in science, along with new discussions of the role of models in science, science in policy-making, and feminist philosophy of science. This broad yet detailed overview will give readers a strong grounding in philosophy of science whilst also providing opportunities for further exploration.
An Introduction to the Physics of Interstellar Dust
by Endrik KrugelStreamlining the extensive information from the original, highly acclaimed monograph, this new An Introduction to the Physics of Interstellar Dust provides a concise reference and overview of interstellar dust and the interstellar medium. Drawn from a graduate course taught by the author, a highly regarded figure in the field, this all-in-one book
An Introduction to the Psychology of Hearing
by Brian C. J. MooreNow available in a Fifth Edition, An Introduction to the Psychology of Hearing is the leading textbook in the field of auditory perceptionalso known as psychoacoustics. The Fifth Edition has been thoroughly updated, with more than 200 references to articles and books published since 1996. <P><P>The book describes the relationships between the characteristics of the sounds that enter the ear and the sensations that they produce. Wherever possible these relationships are specified in terms of the underlying mechanisms. In other words, the goal is to impart an understanding of what the auditory system does and how it works. <P><P>Topics covered include the physics of sound, the physiology of the auditory system, frequency selectivity and masking, loudness perception, temporal analysis, pitch perception, sound localization, timbre perception, the perceptual organization of complex auditory "scenes", speech perception, and practical applications such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and high-fidelity sound reproduction. <P><P>The book starts from basic principles, and does not assume prior knowledge about hearing. Research results are not just described, but are interpreted and evaluated. The book includes extensive references to recent research so that those interested in a specific area can readily obtain more detailed information.
An Introduction to the Science of Cosmology (Series in Astronomy and Astrophysics)
by Derek Raine E. G. ThomasA thorough introduction to modern ideas on cosmology and on the physical basis of the general theory of relativity, An Introduction to the Science of Cosmology explores various theories and ideas in big bang cosmology, providing insight into current problems. Assuming no previous knowledge of astronomy or cosmology, this book takes you beyond introductory texts to the point where you are able to read and appreciate the scientific literature, which is broadly referenced in the book. The authors present the standard big bang theory of the universe and provide an introduction to current inflationary cosmology, emphasizing the underlying physics without excessive technical detail.The book treats cosmological models without reliance on prior knowledge of general relativity, the necessary physics being introduced in the text as required. It also covers recent observational evidence pointing to an accelerating expansion of the universe. The first several chapters provide an introduction to the topics discussed later in the book. The next few chapters introduce relativistic cosmology and the classic observational tests. One chapter gives the main results of the hot big bang theory. Next, the book presents the inflationary model and discusses the problem of the origin of structure and the correspondingly more detailed tests of relativistic models. Finally, the book considers some general issues raised by expansion and isotropy. A reference section completes the work by listing essential formulae, symbols, and physical constants.Beyond the level of many elementary books on cosmology, An Introduction to the Science of Cosmology encompasses numerous recent developments and ideas in the area. It provides more detailed coverage than many other titles available, and the inclusion of problems at the end of each chapter aids in self study and makes the book suitable for taught courses.
An Introduction to the Solar System
by David A. Rothery Iain Gilmour Neil McBrideOngoing advances in Solar System exploration continue to reveal its splendour and diversity in remarkable detail. This undergraduate-level textbook presents fascinating descriptions and colour images of the bodies in the Solar System, the processes that occur upon and within them, and their origins and evolution. It highlights important concepts and techniques in boxed summaries, while questions and exercises are embedded at appropriate points throughout the text, with full solutions provided. Written and edited by a team of practising planetary scientists, this third edition has been updated to reflect our current knowledge. It is ideal for introductory courses on the subject, and is suitable for self-study. The text is supported by online resources, hosted at www.cambridge.org/solarsystem3, which include selected figures from the book, self-assessment questions and sample tutor assignments, with outlines of suggested answers.
An Introduction to the Standard Model of Particle Physics
by W. N. Cottingham D. A. GreenwoodThe new edition of this introductory graduate textbook provides a concise but accessible introduction to the Standard Model. It has been updated to account for the successes of the theory of strong interactions, and the observations on matter-antimatter asymmetry. It has become clear that neutrinos are not mass-less, and this book gives a coherent presentation of the phenomena and the theory that describes them. It includes an account of progress in the theory of strong interactions and of advances in neutrino physics. The book clearly develops the theoretical concepts from the electromagnetic and weak interactions of leptons and quarks to the strong interactions of quarks. Each chapter ends with problems, and hints to selected problems are provided at the end of the book. The mathematical treatments are suitable for graduates in physics, and more sophisticated mathematical ideas are developed in the text and appendices.
An Introduction to the Study of Experimental Medicine
by Claude BernardClear and penetrating presentation of the basic principles of scientific research from the great French physiologist whose contributions in the 19th century included the discovery of vasomotor nerves; nature of curare and other poisons in human body; functions of pancreatic juice in digestion; elucidation of glycogenic function of the liver.
An Introduction to the Theory of Elasticity
by R. J. Atkin N. FoxThanks to intense research activity in the field of continuum mechanics, the teaching of subjects such as elasticity theory has attained a high degree of clarity and simplicity. This introductory volume offers upper-level undergraduates a perspective based on modern developments that also takes into account the limited mathematical tools they are likely to have at their disposal. It also places special emphasis on areas that students often find difficult upon first encounter. An Introduction to the Theory of Elasticity provides an accessible guide to the subject in a form that will instill a firm foundation for more advanced study.The topics covered include a general discussion of deformation and stress, the derivation of the equations of finite elasticity with some exact solutions, and the formulation of infinitesimal elasticity with application to some two- and three-dimensional static problems and elastic waves. Answers to examples appear at the end of the book.
An Introduction to the Theory of Piezoelectricity (Advances in Mechanics and Mathematics #9)
by Jiashi YangThis textbook introduces theoretical piezoelectricity. The second edition updates a classical, seminal reference on a fundamental topic that is addressed in every materials science curriculum. It presents a concise treatment of the basic theoretical aspects of continuum modeling of electroelastic interactions in solids. The general nonlinear theory for large deformations and strong fields is established and specialized to the linear theory for small deformations and weak fields, i.e., the theory of piezoelectricity. Relatively simple and useful solutions of many static and dynamic problems of piezoelectricity that are useful in device applications are given. Emphasis is on the formulation of solutions to problems rather than advanced mathematical solution techniques. This book includes many examples to assist and enhance students’ understanding of piezoelectricity and piezoelastics.
An Introduction to the Theory of Stellar Structure and Evolution
by Dina PrialnikUsing fundamental physics, the theory of stellar structure and evolution is able to predict how stars are born, how their complex internal structure changes, what nuclear fuel they burn, and what their ultimate fate is - a fading whitedwarf, or a cataclysmic explosion as a supernova, leaving behind a collapsed neutron star or black hole. This lucid textbook provides students with a clear and pedagogical introduction to the theory of stellar structure and evolution. It requires only basic physics and mathematics learnt in first- and second-year undergraduate studies, and assumes no prior knowledge of astronomy. The unique feature of this book is the emphasis throughout on the basic physical principles governing stellar evolution. Exercises and their full solutions are included to help students test their understanding. This textbook provides a stimulating introduction for undergraduates in astronomy, physics, planetary science and applied mathematics taking a course on the physics of stars.
An Introduction to the Theory of the Boltzmann Equation (Dover Books On Physics Series)
by Stewart HarrisBoltzmann's equation (or Boltzmann-like equations) appears extensively in such disparate fields as laser scattering, solid-state physics, nuclear transport, and beyond the conventional boundaries of physics and engineering, in the fields of cellular proliferation and automobile traffic flow. This introductory graduate-level course for students of physics and engineering offers detailed presentations of the basic modern theory of Boltzmann’s equation, including representative applications using both Boltzmann’s equation and the model Boltzmann equations developed within the text. It emphasizes physical aspects of the theory, and it represents a practical resource for researchers and other professionals. The problems following each chapter are intended as learning examples, and they frequently extend and generalize the text material. Additional editorial features include a historical introduction, references, and subject and author indexes. 1971 edition.
An Introduction to the Topological Derivative Method (SpringerBriefs in Mathematics)
by Antonio André Novotny Jan SokołowskiThis book presents the topological derivative method through selected examples, using a direct approach based on calculus of variations combined with compound asymptotic analysis. This new concept in shape optimization has applications in many different fields such as topology optimization, inverse problems, imaging processing, multi-scale material design and mechanical modeling including damage and fracture evolution phenomena. In particular, the topological derivative is used here in numerical methods of shape optimization, with applications in the context of compliance structural topology optimization and topology design of compliant mechanisms. Some exercises are offered at the end of each chapter, helping the reader to better understand the involved concepts.
An Introductory Course in Computational Neuroscience (Computational Neuroscience Series)
by Paul MillerA textbook for students with limited background in mathematics and computer coding, emphasizing computer tutorials that guide readers in producing models of neural behavior. This introductory text teaches students to understand, simulate, and analyze the complex behaviors of individual neurons and brain circuits. It is built around computer tutorials that guide students in producing models of neural behavior, with the associated Matlab code freely available online. From these models students learn how individual neurons function and how, when connected, neurons cooperate in a circuit. The book demonstrates through simulated models how oscillations, multistability, post-stimulus rebounds, and chaos can arise within either single neurons or circuits, and it explores their roles in the brain. The book first presents essential background in neuroscience, physics, mathematics, and Matlab, with explanations illustrated by many example problems. Subsequent chapters cover the neuron and spike production; single spike trains and the underlying cognitive processes; conductance-based models; the simulation of synaptic connections; firing-rate models of large-scale circuit operation; dynamical systems and their components; synaptic plasticity; and techniques for analysis of neuron population datasets, including principal components analysis, hidden Markov modeling, and Bayesian decoding. Accessible to undergraduates in life sciences with limited background in mathematics and computer coding, the book can be used in a “flipped” or “inverted” teaching approach, with class time devoted to hands-on work on the computer tutorials. It can also be a resource for graduate students in the life sciences who wish to gain computing skills and a deeper knowledge of neural function and neural circuits.
An Introductory Course of Particle Physics
by Palash B. PalFor graduate students unfamiliar with particle physics, An Introductory Course of Particle Physics teaches the basic techniques and fundamental theories related to the subject. It gives students the competence to work out various properties of fundamental particles, such as scattering cross-section and lifetime. The book also gives a lucid summary
An Introductory Guide to Computational Methods for the Solution of Physics Problems (Lecture Notes in Physics #955)
by George Rawitscher Victo dos Santos Filho Thiago Carvalho PeixotoThis monograph presents fundamental aspects of modern spectral and other computational methods, which are not generally taught in traditional courses. It emphasizes concepts as errors, convergence, stability, order and efficiency applied to the solution of physical problems. The spectral methods consist in expanding the function to be calculated into a set of appropriate basis functions (generally orthogonal polynomials) and the respective expansion coefficients are obtained via collocation equations. The main advantage of these methods is that they simultaneously take into account all available information, rather only the information available at a limited number of mesh points. They require more complicated matrix equations than those obtained in finite difference methods. However, the elegance, speed, and accuracy of the spectral methods more than compensates for any such drawbacks. During the course of the monograph, the authors examine the usually rapid convergence of the spectral expansions and the improved accuracy that results when nonequispaced support points are used, in contrast to the equispaced points used in finite difference methods. In particular, they demonstrate the enhanced accuracy obtained in the solution of integral equations.The monograph includes an informative introduction to old and new computational methods with numerous practical examples, while at the same time pointing out the errors that each of the available algorithms introduces into the specific solution. It is a valuable resource for undergraduate students as an introduction to the field and for graduate students wishing to compare the available computational methods. In addition, the work develops the criteria required for students to select the most suitable method to solve the particular scientific problem that they are confronting.
An Introductory Path to Quantum Theory: Using Mathematics to Understand the Ideas of Physics
by Stephen Bruce SontzSince the 17th century, physical theories have been expressed in the language of mathematical equations. This introduction to quantum theory uses that language to enable the reader to comprehend the notoriously non-intuitive ideas of quantum physics. The mathematical knowledge needed for using this book comes from standard undergraduate mathematics courses and is described in detail in the section Prerequisites. This text is especially aimed at advanced undergraduate and graduate students of mathematics, computer science, engineering and chemistry among other disciplines, provided they have the math background even though lacking preparation in physics. In fact, no previous formal study of physics is assumed.
An Invariant Approach to Statistical Analysis of Shapes (Chapman & Hall/CRC Interdisciplinary Statistics)
by Subhash R. Lele Joan T. RichtsmeierNatural scientists perceive and classify organisms primarily on the basis of their appearance and structure- their form , defined as that characteristic remaining invariant after translation, rotation, and possibly reflection of the object. The quantitative study of form and form change comprises the field of morphometrics. For morphometrics to suc
An Invitation to Cognitive Science, Volume 4 (2nd edition)
by Daniel N. OshersonThe 4th volume of the series, which covers Methods, Models, and Conceptual Issues.
An Invitation to Cognitive Science, Volumes 1-3 (2nd edition)
by Edward E. Smith Daniel N. OshersonThe first three volumes of a four-volume introduction to contemporary cognitive science. The volumes are self-contained, and can be used individually in a variety of advanced undergraduate and graduate courses.
An Invitation to Mathematical Biology
by David G Costa Paul J SchulteThe textbook is designed to provide a "non-intimidating" entry to the field of mathematical biology. It is also useful for those wishing to teach an introductory course. Although there are many good mathematical biology texts available, most books are too advanced mathematically for most biology majors. Unlike undergraduate math majors, most biology major students possess a limited math background. Given that computational biology is a rapidly expanding field, more students should be encouraged to familiarize themselves with this powerful approach to understand complex biological phenomena. Ultimately, our goal with this undergraduate textbook is to provide an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of mathematical biology in a way that does not overly terrify an undergraduate biology major, thereby fostering a greater appreciation for the role of mathematics in biology
An Invitation to Metamaterials: Theory and Applications (Lecture Notes in Physics #1037)
by Didier FelbacqThis book provides a thorough introduction to the fundamental principles and cutting-edge applications of metamaterials. It offers a balanced perspective, combining theoretical, experimental, and computational approaches. Topics covered include rapidly evolving areas such as metasurfaces, quantum metamaterials, and nonlinear metamaterials. The book also extends its scope beyond optics to explore applications in acoustics, thermal science, mechanics, and even seismology. A dedicated chapter discusses topological insulators, providing detailed insights into this advanced topic. The text is designed for advanced graduate students and early career researchers in the field of metamaterials. Specialists in the field will also benefit from the book's presentation of new developments and innovative approaches. Two chapters focus on advanced mathematical methods, including fiber bundles, Chern numbers, pseudodifferential operators, and scattering theory. These sections are crafted to be reasonably self-contained, with references provided for readers who wish to explore these topics further.
An Invitation to Quantum Field Theory (Lecture Notes in Physics #839)
by Luis Alvarez-Gaumé Miguel A. Vázquez-MozoThis book provides an introduction to Quantum Field Theory (QFT) at an elementary level--with only special relativity, electromagnetism and quantum mechanics as prerequisites. For this fresh approach to teaching QFT, based on numerous lectures and courses given by the authors, a representative sample of topics has been selected containing some of the more innovative, challenging or subtle concepts. They are presented with a minimum of technical details, the discussion of the main ideas being more important than the presentation of the typically very technical mathematical details necessary to obtain the final results. Special attention is given to the realization of symmetries in particle physics: global and local symmetries, explicit, spontaneously broken, and anomalous continuous symmetries, as well as discrete symmetries. Beyond providing an overview of the standard model of the strong, weak and electromagnetic interactions and the current understanding of the origin of mass, the text enumerates the general features of renormalization theory as well as providing a cursory description of effective field theories and the problem of naturalness in physics. Among the more advanced topics the reader will find are an outline of the first principles derivation of the CPT theorem and the spin-statistics connection. As indicated by the title, the main aim of this text is to motivate the reader to study QFT by providing a self-contained and approachable introduction to the most exciting and challenging aspects of this successful theoretical framework.