Background Reading for Physics and Philosophy
Before the list, a quick word of advice for those considering applying to do physics and philosophy at Oxford. It is natural to worry that the admissions process will test how much you know about philosophy and that this is why you should read around the subject. This is a mistake! You are not expected to display this kind of knowledge, either on your personal statement or in interview. Instead, admissions tutors want to find out whether you have a genuine interest in the subject and whether you have the intellectual aptitude to thrive on the course.
So why read some of these books? Precisely in order to find out (for yourself!) whether you do have such an interest. Do you find the combination of physics and philosophy fascinating? Do you have the kind of mind that enjoys uncovering the hidden assumptions and conceptual foundations of the subject?
Philosophy of Physics
- David Wallace, Philosophy of Physics: A Very Short Introduction (OUP, 2021).
- David Albert, After Physics (Harvard University Press, 2015).
Philosophy of space and time
Sean Carroll, The Biggest Ideas in the Universe 1: Space, Time and Motion (Oneworld, 2022). This is a (non-technical) physics book aimed at the lay reader but its focus and reflection on core ideas and fundamentals is characteristic of philosophy of physics.
Julian Barbour, The End of Time (Weidenfeld & Nicholson, 1999). Barbour’s work is closely connected to the debate between Leibniz and Clarke concerning the nature of space and time. Part 2 of his book, in particular, is excellent background reading for the 1st year course.
Nick Huggett, Everywhere and Everywhen: Adventures in Physics and Philosophy (OUP, 2010).
Philosophy of quantum mechanics
- Alastair Rae, Illusion or Reality? (2nd edition, CUP, 2004).
- D. Albert, Quantum Mechanics and Experience (Harvard University Press, 1994).
- Sean Carroll, Something Deeply Hidden (Oneworld, 2019).
Philosophy and Physics
- J. T. Ismael, How Physics Makes Us Free (OUP, 2016).
General Philosophy of Science
- Tim Lewens, The Meaning of Science (Penguin, 2015)
- Thomas Kuhn, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions (4th edition, University of Chicago Press, 2012)
- Bas van Fraassen, The Scientific Image (OUP, 1980).