Who is More Important for Physics: Newton or Einstein?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the comparative importance of Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein in the field of physics. Participants explore their contributions, intelligence, and the foundational role each played in the development of scientific thought. The conversation touches on historical context, personal opinions, and humorous asides, with a mix of serious and light-hearted commentary.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Historical
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants argue that Newton is more important because Einstein's theories build upon Newtonian physics.
  • Others express confusion about the necessity of comparing the two figures, suggesting that both contributed significantly to physics.
  • A participant mentions Robert Hooke's influence on Newton, arguing that Newton would not have achieved his insights without Hooke's contributions.
  • There are humorous comparisons made about a hypothetical bar fight between Newton and Einstein, with some participants joking about Newton's physicality versus Einstein's pacifism.
  • Discussion includes a reference to a quote by Newton regarding standing on the shoulders of giants, with some participants speculating about its implications regarding Hooke.
  • Several participants share personal anecdotes and humorous remarks unrelated to the main topic, such as preferences for pie and eye dominance.
  • There is mention of John Bardeen and his contributions to physics, indicating a broader interest in notable physicists beyond Newton and Einstein.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on who is more important, with multiple competing views remaining. Some express a preference for Newton, while others emphasize the significance of both figures or introduce additional historical context with Hooke.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to historical relationships and rivalries, particularly between Newton and Hooke, which may influence perceptions of their contributions. There are also humorous and off-topic remarks that could detract from the seriousness of the debate.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the history of physics, the contributions of key figures in science, and the dynamics of scientific debate may find this discussion engaging.

  • #31
zoobyshoe said:
(Shhhhh. Randallb thinks I am a gullible person taken in by a wise-cracker.)
Ok OK - so you're not gullible, it was your creative imagination cracking wise with yourself - & us.
So - keeping it quit just with us here, in your creative imagination
(what is Hawking marking on who's photos?)
 
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  • #32
Einstein is better than Newton since he even proved him wrong.
 
  • #33
Mattara said:
Einstein is better than Newton since he even proved him wrong.
Where exactly did Einstein “prove” Newton wrong?
Don’t include the modern idea that Newtonian gravity requires “instant” transmission.
Newton never claimed that – He was very specific in mathematically defining the force relationship of gravity between two masses and clearly stated that he was not proposing anything as to how the forces were connected between the two masses.
 
  • #34
RandallB said:
Where exactly did Einstein “prove” Newton wrong?
Don’t include the modern idea that Newtonian gravity requires “instant” transmission.
Newton never claimed that – He was very specific in mathematically defining the force relationship of gravity between two masses and clearly stated that he was not proposing anything as to how the forces were connected between the two masses.

That is exactly what I mean. Newton did claim that.
 
  • #35
Mattara said:
Newton did claim that.
Where? Do you have a quote or referance?
 
  • #36
chroot said:
I don't know about you guys, but I think if Newton and Einstein got in a bar fight, Newton would totally have won. I mean, it's so easy to pound on a pacifist.

- Warren
well, I don't know why I think we'd have trouble to realize who's the winner!(considering modern physics)
 
  • #37
did anyone see this movie

"E=mc2 Einstein and the world's most famous equation"

this movie starts with Faraday and finishes at Einstein,,showing that the base was laid by these guys..
 
  • #38
  • #39
FredGarvin said:
I like pie.
Mmmmm pie...:-p
I like \pi too..
 
  • #40
Hooke pwns them both.

Fear the Hooke
 
  • #41
Mattara said:
My bad

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/time/through.html

Also, Einstein proved that the normal equations does not work when dealing with high speeds.
Right as from your link "(Newton) admitted he could only describe it without understanding how it worked."

The idea that "normal equations" require 'instant' gravity is a modern requirement, that Newton never claimed.

As to that three way bar fight Hooke & Newton are in trouble if the pacifist brings his nuke.
 
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