Symmetry rules. How science and nature are founded on symmetry. (Q2426636)

The author of this very interesting book is convinced that science (even in its broadest conception) and, in particular, physics not only make use of symmetry, but are essentially and fundamentally based on symmetry. More precisely, science rests firmly on reproducibility, predictability, and reduction, all of which are symmetries, and is additionally supported from analogy and objectivity, which are symmetries, too. Regarding the use of symmetry, the symmetry of evolution (in the laws of nature), the symmetry of states of physical systems, gauge symmetry of the fundamental interactions, and the symmetry inherent to quantum theory are investigated, yielding also deep questions: What is the source of all this symmetry, is nature symmetry, is symmetry the foundational principle of the Universe? E.g., it is shown that the Universe cannot possess exact symmetry, and related matters are discussed, including the nature of the ``quantum era'' that is assumed to form the first evolutionary stage in big-bang type schemes. The book is organized as follows: After a brief introduction to the concept of symmetry (referring also to that of asymmetry) and to the relation between symmetry and science, the author considers a number of ways in which physics, in particular, makes use of symmetry. The symmetry principle is derived in its various versions, and two basic ways of applying it in science are shown. Also the ideas of imperfect symmetry and symmetry in general and as applied to the Universe and its evolution are presented. Furthermore, group theory (as mathematical language of symmetry) is introduced, and finally symmetry considerations and the symmetry formalism are applied to physical processes, and the symmetry principles applying to them are derived. In the final chapter, the author summarizes his investigations, and besides his own list of references he also gives a useful list of interesting references (ordered by chapter numbers) for further reading.