Grete Hermann, Quantum Mechanics, and the Evolution of Kantian Philosophy

Philosophy and Science symposium (fka Philosophy of a Specific Discipline symposium), hosted by the Department of Theoretical Philosophy. Speaker: Mike Cuffaro (Utrecht) Abstract:

I describe and evaluate how Grete Hermann, an important but neglected neo-Kantian philosopher of the previous century, adapted Kantian philosophy in the face of the challenges posed to it by quantum theory. In particular I describe how Hermann's modifications of Kantian philosophy are motivated by the conception of philosophical method she inherited from her teacher, the neo-Friesian philosopher Leonard Nelson. Finally I will evaluate the extent to which Hermann's view remains Kantian and the extent to which it departs from Kantian philosophy, and I compare Hermann's response to quantum theory with that of other Neo-Kantian thinkers of the period.

Note that in my presentation I will not presuppose that the audience has any specialised knowledge of physics.
Everyone welcome!