Fundamental and foundational are subjective terms denoting an essential core; or central or primary rule or principle of a subject matter. In the context of physics (as the subject matter), because all physical phenomena are measured and determined empirically. It is natural, indeed imperative, to consider experiments, themselves, as statements within the paradigm. Further, since even at the simplest level, primary rules and principles have mathematical descriptions. If physics is not a mathematical construct, where does the inability to quantify (measure) end and a magical core begin? Thus, a physics paradigm, as a mathematical construct is fundamental and foundational if and only if the essential core is consistent with all statements (experiments) within the paradigm. A process examining a fundamental and foundational core of a physics paradigm, as a mathematical construct is implemented.
CLAUDE MICHAEL CASSANO