Reverse Physics: From Laws to Physical Assumptions

TL;DR

This paper proposes a reverse approach to the foundations of physics, identifying minimal physical assumptions needed to derive existing theories, akin to reverse mathematics in mathematics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel framework to analyze physical theories by deriving them from minimal physical assumptions, enhancing understanding of their foundational basis.

Findings

Identifies key physical assumptions for deriving theories

Provides a method to compare deductive power of assumptions

Suggests a new foundation for physical theories

Abstract

We introduce an approach to the foundations of physics that is more in line with the foundations of mathematics. The idea is to examine current theories and find a set of starting physical assumptions that are sufficient to rederive them, which is the physical equivalent of the reverse mathematics program. This allows us to identify physical starting points (as opposed to mathematical ones), compare their deductive power, and find those that can better serve as a foundation for our theories.