Jammer then devotes a chapter to the distinction between inertial and gravitational mass and to the various versions of the so-called equivalance principle with which Newton initiated his Principia but which also became the starting point of Einstein's general relativity, which supersedes Newtonian physics. The book concludes with a presentation of recently proposed global and local dynamical theories of the origin and nature of mass."--BOOK JACKET.
Of fundamental importance to physics and the philosophy of science, the notion of mass had never been given an integrated and coherent historical investigation until the publication of this book. In it, the noted physicist Max Jammer presents a challenging study of the historical development of the concept of mass, a labor that earned him a monograph prize from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.A rigorous, concise, and provocative book that can be recommended to all serious readers and physicists interested in the foundations of physical science, this volume offers thorough critical and analytical treatment of such topics as the ancient concept of mass; the neoplatonic notion of inertia; the conceptualization of inertial mass; philosophical modifications of the Newtonian concept; the modern concept of mass; mass and energy; the concept of mass in quantum mechanics and field theory; and much more."Graduate students in physics should find this book a unique introduction to a very vexing problem in their chosen field, even though it is one of the most highly developed scientific disciplines." — American Scientist. 1964 edition.
Exploring the evolution of simultaneity, this work traces its historical significance from ancient Egypt and biblical references to its philosophical implications in the thoughts of Pre-Socratic and Aristotelian scholars, as well as its role in Newtonian physics. The author delves into the contributions of Leibniz and Kant, and examines simultaneity's relevance in the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics. Additionally, it addresses contemporary debates surrounding the conventionality thesis of distant simultaneity, making it a vital resource for understanding this complex concept.
Focusing on Einstein's religious and spiritual beliefs, a new study of the physicist's "irrationalism" begins with his early religious formation and carefully following the evolution of his belief in an impersonal God reminiscent of Spinoza's.
Historical surveys of the concept of space considers Judeo-Christian ideas about space, Newton's concept of absolute space, space from 18th century to the present. Numerous original quotations and bibliographical references. "Admirably compact and swiftly paced style." — Philosophy of Science. Foreword by Albert Einstein.
