Parity violation in weak interactions: How experiment can shape a theoretical framework

摘要

In this paper I will focus on the case of the discovery of parity nonconservation in weak interactions from the period spanning 1947-1957, and the lessons this episode provides for successful theory construction in HEP. I aim to (a) summarize the history into a coherent story for philosophers of science, and (b) use the history as a case study for the epistemological evolution of the understanding of weak interactions in HEP. I conclude with some philosophical lessons regarding theory construction in physics. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.