Understanding Space-Time
The Philosophical Development of Physics from Newton to Einstein

Presents the history of space-time physics, from Newton to Einstein, as philosophical and scientific developments.

Robert DiSalle (Author)

9780521857901, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 April 2006

188 pages
23.5 x 16 x 1.7 cm, 0.449 kg

Presenting the history of space-time physics, from Newton to Einstein, as a philosophical development DiSalle reflects our increasing understanding of the connections between ideas of space and time and our physical knowledge. He suggests that philosophy's greatest impact on physics has come about, less by the influence of philosophical hypotheses, than by the philosophical analysis of concepts of space, time and motion, and the roles they play in our assumptions about physical objects and physical measurements. This way of thinking leads to interpretations of the work of Newton and Einstein and the connections between them. It also offers ways of looking at old questions about a priori knowledge, the physical interpretation of mathematics, and the nature of conceptual change. Understanding Space-Time will interest readers in philosophy, history and philosophy of science, and physics, as well as readers interested in the relations between physics and philosophy.

1. Introduction
2. Absolute motion and the emergence of classical mechanics
3. Empiricism and apriorism from Kant to Poincaré
4. The origins of significance of relativity theory
5. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH], History of science [PDX], Philosophy of science [PDA]