The Open System View and the Metaphysics of Symmetries

Abstract

Philosophers have been drawing their attention to the metaphysics of symmetries. Most have taken a Closed System View, that is, the metaphysical assumption that closed systems are ontologically fundamental. In this article, I explore the consequences of adopting a different perspective, the Open System View, according to which open systems are regarded as ontologically fundamental. I argue that by doing so, our metaphysical understanding of symmetries changes substantially in three respects: Epistemic approaches are favored, ontic approaches should change the set of physical symmetries regarded as fundamental, and the metaphysical connection between conservation principles and symmetries is weaker than thought.