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The Philosophy and Physics of Relativity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 March 2022

Roy Wood Sellars
Roy Wood Sellars*
Affiliation:
University of Michigan
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Extract

There will be more philosophy than physics in this paper for I make no pretentions to an expert knowledge of physics. Categories are, however, in my line; and here I may have some insight.

In the theory of relativity much depends upon the conception of the velocity of light in empty space. Such is the expression Einstein employs. If this velocity is to be a quantity independent of the choice of the inertial system to which it is referred, no absolute meaning can be assigned to the conception of the simultaneity of events that occur at points separated by a distance in space. Rather a special time must be allocated to every inertial system. “It is in consequence of this that space and time are welded together into a uniform four-dimensional continuum.” Thus succinctly does Einstein express the c hoice in his article in the Encyclopedia Britannica.

Type
Research Article
Information
Philosophy of Science , Volume 13 , Issue 3 , July 1946 , pp. 177 - 195
Copyright
Copyright © The Philosophy of Science Association 1946

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References

Notes

1 This distinction will become clearer in the later diagrams.

2 Philosophical Review, January, 1946. See also, Jour. of Philos., June 6, 1946.

3 Independent of special times and intrinsically.

4 Along with special times for C.S. frames in respect to each other.

5 Because of the standard ether frame.

6 Though we may not know the precise distance from us of the source when the ray of light left it.

7 The physical flash does not keep an eye on ESD nor does it drop off into space which happens to be the CS of ESD.

8 I take it that Einstein builds on the constant velocity “in space” and that light's velocity is not affected by the motion of its source.

9 Physical, relational movement is asymmetrical. Relative motion is symmetrical, cognitional, and practically arbitrary.

10 Increase of mass is analogous to acceleration.

11 That is, in terms of the Lorentz transformation rules.

12 World lines for particles seem to me more deterministic and static than an active substance which includes process or time.

13 p. 195. Inserted comments mine.

14 p. 196. This is the nub of the difference of approach. Because Einstein still kept light moving in e – r or space, he is forced to assign special times with his stipulation. I give it a physical basis for constancy of light as on extensity activity. Hence, absolute, simultaneity is retained.

15 The Philosophy of Relativity, p. 46. This book seems to me an excellent presentation and defense of relativity. But the philosophy back of it is not realistic.