We may assume the existence of an aether; only we must give up ascribing a definite state of motion to it, i.e. we must by abstraction take from it the last mechanical characteristic which Lorentz had still left it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- We can assume an aether exists but must not assign it a definite motion state. This removes its last mechanical trait.
- In plain terms
- We can assume aether exists but must not treat it like a moving object.
- What can you take from it?
- Scientific models need abstraction to remain consistent.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you define existence?
- What limits mechanical traits?
Another view
Aether theories were later disproven by relativity.
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