What makes measurement possible in the physical world?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of measurement in the physical world, exploring the foundational aspects that make measurement possible. It touches on theoretical, philosophical, and empirical perspectives regarding how physical parameters can be observed and defined in relation to one another.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Philosophical

Main Points Raised

  • One participant argues that every physical parameter's observability relies on the measurement of other parameters, suggesting a complex interdependence among observable quantities.
  • Another participant draws a parallel to language, questioning the possibility of precise definitions without circular references, and asks for clarification on the original query regarding measurement.
  • A third participant references philosophical concepts, stating that scientific terms are often defined in relation to one another within a theory, rather than through external definitions.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of established standards and tools in measurement, suggesting that measurement is a result of manipulation and comparison rather than mere existence.
  • Another participant provides a concrete example of measuring mass using a balance scale, highlighting the principles of leverage and comparability in measurement.
  • A later reply discusses the need for a reference stick in measuring length, indicating a shift from physical to spectral definitions in contemporary measurement practices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the nature of measurement, with some focusing on empirical methods and others leaning towards philosophical implications. There is no clear consensus on the foundational aspects of measurement or the implications of these discussions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the nature of measurement and the definitions of physical parameters, which remain unresolved. The interplay between theoretical and empirical approaches to measurement is also noted but not fully explored.

  • #91
apeiron said:
Clearly, gravity is a lightspeed interaction itself. But measurable changes in gravitational potential are due to the local motions of masses - so tied to their capacity to be at rest and unchanging.

I believe that's an assumption/hypothesis which hasn't any data to support it.
 
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  • #92
rewebster said:
I believe that's an assumption/hypothesis which hasn't any data to support it.

OK, the experimental verification is still in question (http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/gravity_speed_030116.html ).

But it is a reasonable assumption in most eyes. And there is some data, even if it is being questioned.

Or are you offering an argument that it has some different value? I would be interested in the shape of that argument.
 
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  • #93
apeiron said:
OK, the experimental verification is still in question (http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/gravity_speed_030116.html ).

But it is a reasonable assumption in most eyes. And there is some data, even if it is being questioned.

Or are you offering an argument that it has some different value? I would be interested in the shape of that argument.

Can't...

the forum doesn't allow personal theories to be posted
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #94
Locked pending moderation.
 

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