Conceptual Problems in Cosmology

TL;DR

This paper critically examines conceptual issues in modern cosmology from a philosophical perspective, emphasizing the importance of clear definitions and logical consistency in developing cosmological theories amidst observational advancements.

Contribution

It offers a philosophical critique of current cosmological concepts and advocates for clearer, logically consistent foundations in theory development.

Findings

Highlights the need for unified conceptual understanding among cosmologists.

Critiques the current state of quantum and unification approaches in cosmology.

Emphasizes the importance of logical and mathematical testing of cosmological concepts.

Abstract

In this essay a critical review of present conceptual problems in current cosmology is provided from a more philosophical point of view. In essence, a digression on how could philosophy help cosmologists in what is strictly their fundamental endeavor is presented. We start by recalling some examples of enduring confrontations among philosophers and physicists on what could be contributed by the formers to the day-time striving of the second ones. Then, a short review of the standard model Friedmann-Lema\^itre-Robertson-Walter (FLRW) of cosmology is given. It seems apparent that cosmology is living a golden age with the advent of observations of high precision. Nonetheless, a critical revisiting of the direction in which it should go on appears also needed, for misconcepts like "quantum backgrounds for cosmological classical settings" and "quantum gravity unification" have not been properly constructed up-to-date. Thus, knowledge-building in cosmology, more than in any other field, should begin with visions of the reality, then taking technical form whenever concepts and relations inbetween are translated into a mathematical structure. It is mandatory, therefore, that the meaning of such concepts be the same for all cosmologists, and that any relationship among all them be tested both logically as well as mathematically. In other words, the notorius feature of improbability of our universe, as is well-known, assures to cosmologists a priviledged degree of freedom for formulating interpretations and theories. However, at the same time, it demands for their formulations and conclusions to be considered in the light of data taken from astrophysical observations.