The Fermi-Dirac statistics

a simultaneous discovery

N. Guicciardini

G. Introzzi

pp. 357-367

in: Claudio Garola, Arcangelo Rossi (eds), The foundations of quantum mechanics, Berlin, Springer, 1995

Abstract

The very different approaches used by E. Fermi and P. A. M. Dirac to derive the Fermi-Dirac particle statistics are analyzed in detail. We suggest that the stability of theoretical conclusions through conceptual change, as exemplified in this historical case study, plays a role in justifying our belief in theoretical statements.