If someone points out to you that your pet theory of the universe is in disagreement with Maxwell's equations - then so much the worse for Maxwell's equations. If it is found to be contradicted by observation - well, these experimentalists do bungle things sometimes. But if your theory is found to be against the second law of thermodynamics I can give you no hope; there is nothing for it but to collapse in deepest humiliation.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A theory contradicting Maxwell's equations or experiments might be defended, but one violating the second law of thermodynamics is hopeless.
- In plain terms
- Ignore Maxwell or experiments if needed, but never break the second law of thermodynamics.
- What can you take from it?
- The second law of thermodynamics is the most secure constraint for physical theories.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes a law fundamental?
- Are all laws revisable?
Another view
Even thermodynamics has been questioned in extreme or quantum contexts.
More from Arthur Stanley Eddington
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