Why are the physical laws so useful?

The laws of physics are unreasonably useful for creatures like us.

Approximating these laws is the basis for physics as we know it and has led to numerous predictions, technological innovations, and explanations.

But how can it be that finite beings like us can (approximately) know, let alone put to practical use, the fundamental laws of the universe?

The project examines to what extent the usefulness of the physical laws is evidence that what counts as a law of physics is partly relative to our capacities and interests.

It runs for three years and involves three experts in the philosophy of physics who will develop a new theory of laws of nature. They will examine our best candidates for the laws of physics and how these are used in scientific practice.

The project brings to the forefront overlooked questions about laws of nature and deepens our understanding of the goals of physics.