Matter and forces in quantum field theory -- an attempt at a philosophical elucidation

TL;DR

This paper explores the philosophical foundations of quantum field theory, examining how different ontologies relate to the fundamental physics described by the theory.

Contribution

It provides a philosophical analysis of quantum field theory's ontologies, bridging physics and philosophy with a historical perspective.

Findings

Different ontologies of quantum field theory are discussed.

The relation between physics and philosophy is critically examined.

The work offers a philosophical framework for understanding quantum fields.

Abstract

This is a translation into English of my Masters thesis (hovedoppgave) from 1991. The main topic of the thesis is the relation between fundamental physics and philosophy, and a discussion of several possible ontologies of quantum field theory.