Non-maths general question on history of space time

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on structuring a BSc project on the history of space-time, highlighting key contributors such as Galileo, Newton/Leibniz, Mach, Lorentz, and Einstein. The participant seeks advice on whether to include additional figures like Michael Faraday and Maxwell, or to group them under Einstein's contributions. The consensus suggests that for a broad overview, the initial list is sufficient, but for a focused project, expanding to include figures like Henri Poincaré, Hermann Minkowski, and Karl Schwarzschild is advisable. Additionally, exploring philosophical implications like the block universe theory is recommended.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of key historical figures in physics, specifically in relation to space-time.
  • Familiarity with the contributions of Galileo, Newton, and Einstein.
  • Knowledge of the philosophical implications of space-time theories.
  • Basic comprehension of the block universe theory and its relevance in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the contributions of Henri Poincaré to the development of space-time theory.
  • Study Hermann Minkowski's formulation of space-time and its impact on physics.
  • Explore Karl Schwarzschild's solutions to Einstein's field equations.
  • Investigate the philosophical implications of the block universe theory in contemporary physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those focusing on the historical evolution of space-time theories and their contributors.

pachelbel
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Non-maths general question on history of space time :)

Hello,

I'm doing a Bsc project on space-time and was hoping to receive some advice on how others would structure the history of the topic. I know this is a broad question but what I'm struggling with is how to narrow down the relevant contributors, I don't want to miss out key people involved in its evolution but I also don't want to unnecessarily take up words.

For instance I was thinking of explaining the history in this order:

Galileo
Newton/Leibniz
Mach
Lorentz
Einstein

But then I feel like I should involve for example Michael Faraday & Maxwell's Energy/speed of light contribution or should I just sub-heading that under Einstein where relevant?

I'm new to this forum so I hope this question is appropriate for this section.

Appreciate any help I can get, thanks! :)
 
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The short answer is that it depends on the scope of your project. If you're looking for a broad overview, then including Galileo, Newton/Leibniz, Mach, Lorentz and Einstein is a good start. However, if your project is more focused, then you could expand on other contributors such as Michael Faraday and Maxwell. You could also include notable figures such as Henri Poincaré, Hermann Minkowski, and Karl Schwarzschild. It may also be worth mentioning some of the philosophical implications of space-time, such as the block universe theory and the concept of spacetime as an arena for physical events.
 

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