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arXiv · 0806.1234

The Theory of Relativity - Galileo's Child

Mitchell J. Feigenbaum
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Abstract

We determine the Lorentz transformations and the kinematic content and dynamical framework of special relativity as purely an extension of Galileo's thoughts. No reference to light is ever required: The theories of relativity are logically independent of any properties of light. The thoughts of Galileo are fully realized in a system of Lorentz transformations with a parameter 1/c^2, some undetermined, universal constant of nature; and are realizable in no other. Isotropy of space plays a deep and pivotal role in all of this, since here three-dimensional space appears at first blush, and persists until the conclusion: Relativity can never correctly be fully developed in just one spatial dimension.

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Mitchell J. Feigenbaum. 2008-06-06. The Theory of Relativity - Galileo's Child. https://arxiv.org/abs/0806.1234

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