Physics and Metaphysics

TL;DR

This paper critiques the shift from experimental to metaphysical approaches in physics, analyzing examples like the Gutzwiller method, tunneling, irregular motion, and special relativity foundations.

Contribution

It highlights the importance of experiment in physics and critiques recent theoretical trends that neglect empirical validation.

Findings

Critique of the Gutzwiller approach

Analysis of classical tunneling description

Discussion on the foundations of special relativity

Abstract

Experiment plays a decisive role in physics. It is the single source of our understanding of nature. But, during the last century the main accent in theoretical physics has moved toward metaphysics. Some mathematicians/theoreticians try to develop new approaches, ignoring experiments. Three examples of such treatment are discussed here: the Gutzwiller approach, the classical description of the tunneling phenomenon and the role of irregular motion in classical mechanics. The foundations of special relativity are also discussed.