Synthesized answer
The central thesis of *The New Scientific Spirit* by Gaston Bachelard is that the unpredictable behavior of subatomic particles challenges the mechanistic and ordered view of the universe that characterized nineteenth-century science [1]. Bachelard uses his scientific background and interest in the nonrational to examine the profound implications of this new physics [1].
The book explores the deeper meanings arising from the new physics, suggesting a departure from the straightforward, empirical understandings previously held by scientists [1]. While the provided passages highlight Bachelard's focus on the contrast between the seemingly neat, ordered universe and the unpredictable nature of subatomic particles [1], they do not explicitly state a single, overarching "central thesis" beyond this core argument.
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Title: The New Scientific Spirit by Gaston Bachelard Description: In this book, Bachelard draws upon both his scientific training and his interest in the nonrational - which ultimately drew him toward the study of poetics - to explore the deeper meanings of the new physics. In Bachelard's view, the unpredictable behaviour of subatomic particles belies the seemingly neat, ordered, and mechanistic universe that the practical and empirical scientists of the nineteenth century thought they saw. Categories: Science Pages: 224 Snippet: In this book, Bachelard draws upon both his scientific…