The physicists philosophy of physics

TL;DR

This paper explores the implicit philosophical assumptions within physics research, proposing a community-based philosophy that aligns with physicists' perspectives and comparing it to views from philosophers and sociologists.

Contribution

It introduces a definition of the community philosophy of physics accepted by physicists and contrasts it with external philosophical and sociological perspectives.

Findings

Physicists operate under an implicit community philosophy.

The proposed definition aligns with physicists' views.

Comparison reveals differences between physicists' philosophy and external analyses.

Abstract

I argue that research in physics operates under an implicit community philosophy, and I offer a definition I think physicists would accept, by and large. I compare this definition to what philosophers, sociologists, and historians of science, with physicists, say we are doing.