Concepts of Space: The History of Theories of Space in PhysicsAlthough the concept of space is of fundamental importance in both physics and philosophy, until the publication of this book, the idea of space had never been treated in terms of its historical development. It remained for Dr. Jammer, noted scholar and historian of science, to trace the evolution of the idea of space in this comprehensive, thought-provoking study. The focus of the book is on physical, rather than metaphysical, ideas of space; however, philosophical or theological speculations are discussed when relevant. The author has also given special attention to the cultural settings in which the theories developed. Following a Foreword by Albert Einstein and an introductory chapter on the concept of space in antiquity, subsequent chapters consider Judaeo-Christian ideas about space, the emancipation of the space concept from Aristotelianism, Newton's concept of absolute space and the concept of space from the eighteenth century to the present. For this third edition, Dr. Jammer has contributed an extensive new chapter six, reviewing the numerous and profound changes in the philosophy of space since the publication of the second edition. An abundance of meticulously documented quotations from original sources and numerous bibliographic references make this an exceptionally well-documented book. It is essential reading for philosophers, physicists, and mathematicians, but even nonprofessional readers will find it accessible. |
Contents
JUDEOCHRISTIAN IDEAS ABOUT SPACE | 25 |
THE EMANCIPATION OF THE SPACE CONCEPT | 51 |
THE CONCEPT OF ABSOLUTE SPACE | 93 |
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Concepts of Space: The History of Theories of Space in Physics: Third ... Max Jammer Limited preview - 2013 |
Common terms and phrases
absolute motion absolute space according Archytas argument Aristotelian Aristotelian physics Aristotle assumption atomistic atoms cabalistic Campanella century circular motion conceived concept of absolute concept of space coördinate system cosmology Crescas curvature Damascius definition of place Descartes determined dimensionality dimensions distance doctrine earth Einstein elements empiristic empty space Euclidean geometry existence of absolute experience finite forces fundamental Gauss Huygens Ibid ideas immovable inertial system infinite influence Jewish Kalām Kant L. E. J. Brouwer Leibniz Leipzig logical London mathematical matter ment metaphysical metric modern motu moving natural places Neoplatonic Newton non-Euclidean non-Euclidean geometry object outermost sphere Patritius Philoponus philosophy physical space Poincaré postulate Principia principle problem of space purely quod Raumes reality reference relation relative motion Riemann Riemannian curvature rotation Scholium Sextus Empiricus Simplicius structure of space surface theory of relativity theory of space things thought three-dimensional space tion universe void Witelo