Is Thermodynamics Subjective?

Citation

Robertson K & Prunkl C (2023) Is Thermodynamics Subjective?. Philosophy of Science, 90 (5), pp. 1320-1330. https://doi.org/10.1017/psa.2023.58

Abstract
Thermodynamics is an unusual theory. Prominent figures, including J. C. Maxwell and E. T. Jaynes, have suggested that thermodynamics is anthropocentric, and contemporary approaches label thermodynamics a “subjective theory.” Here, we evaluate the arguments for anthropocentrism but conclude that instead of pointing to an anthropocentric view, they point towards a resource-relative understanding of thermodynamics which can be shorn of the “subjective gloss.”

Keywords
History and Philosophy of Science; Philosophy; History

Journal
Philosophy of Science: Volume 90, Issue 5

People

Dr Katie Robertson

Lecturer in Philosophy, Philosophy