Gaston Bachelard argues that the unpredictable behavior of subatomic particles contradicts the nineteenth-century mechanistic view of a neat, ordered universe. He synthesizes his scientific background with his interest in the nonrational, specifically poetics, to examine the profound implications of modern physics. This approach challenges established scientific thought by highlighting the emergent irrationality within the subatomic realm.
Readers gain insight into how contemporary physics, particularly concerning subatomic phenomena, disrupts the older, empirically derived models of a predictable cosmos. Bachelard bridges the gap between scientific discovery and poetic exploration, revealing deeper meanings in the "new physics" that move beyond purely rational and practical interpretations.
Key concepts
- New physics — The branch of physics that Bachelard uses to demonstrate the unpredictability of subatomic particles.
- Mechanistic universe — The nineteenth-century scientific view of the universe as ordered and predictable, which Bachelard's new physics refutes.
- Nonrational — A concept Bachelard explores, which influences his study of physics and poetics.
- Poetics — Bachelard's interest in this field informs his analysis of the deeper meanings found in new physics.