The 42nd Ockham Lecture - The Meaning of Relativity: What It Was, What It Is, and What It Could Be

To be given by Professor Samuel Fletcher, Fellow (2024) and Tutor in Philosophy, Merton College, Professor of Philosophy of Physics, University of Oxford

Abstract

No modern physical theories are as uniquely the creation of a single mind as Albert Einstein's theories of special and general relativity. Yet what these theories say about space, time, and gravitation has not been fixed by Einstein's pen. Indeed, the dominant interpretations of relativity theory differ substantially from what Einstein originally envisaged and maintained. In addition to tracing how these interpretations shifted and why, I look to the future for how the interpretation of general relativity in particular aids in the search for a quantum theory of gravity, and how, conversely, developments in quantum gravity may bear upon the interpretation of general relativity.

The Ockham Lecture Series

The Merton College Physics Lecture (the Ockham, or Occam, Lecture, so named in honour of one of the greatest—if unattested—alumni of the College and of his philosophical principle of intellectual discipline) started in 2009 and is held once a term. It is organised by the physics tutors of the College to promote both intellectual curiosity and social cohesion of the Merton Physics community.

Attendance is by invitation: All Merton physicists (and sympathisers) belonging to the three Common Rooms (JCR, MCR and SCR) are invited, as are the Old Members. Their guests are also accommodated, space permitting. To sign up, please visit the Ockham Lecture Facebook page.