The Theory of Relativity
Rudolf Steiner
A new direction in thinking has been
stimulated by Einstein�s attempt to transform fundamental concepts of physics.
Until now, physics accounted for the phenomena accessible to it by imagining
them arranged in empty three-dimensional space and taking place in
one-dimensional time. Thus space and time were assumed to exist outside and
independent of objects and events, in fixed quantities. With regard to objects,
we measured distances in space; with regards to events, we measured durations
in time. Distance and duration, according to this view of space and time, do
not belong to the objects and events. This view has now been countered by the
theory of relativity introduced by Einstein. From this perspective, the distance
between two objects belongs to the objects themselves.�������
A
specific distance from another object is an attribute, a property just like any
other property an object may possess. Interrelationships are inherent in
objects, and outside these interrelationships there is no such thing as space.
Assuming the independent existence of space makes it possible to conceive of a
geometry for that space, a geometry that can be applied to the world of
objects. This geometry arises in the world of pure thoughts, and objects must
submit to it. We can say that relationships in the world must obey laws that
were laid down in thought before
actual objects were observed. The theory of relativity dethrones this geometry.
Only objects exist, objects whose relationships can be described by means of
geometry. Geometry becomes a part of physics. In that case, however, we can no
longer say that the laws of geometry can be laid down before the objects are observed. No object
has a location in space but only distances relative to other objects.
A
similar assumption is made about time. No event exists at a specific point in
time; it happens at a temporal distance from another event. Thus, spatial and
temporal distances between interrelated objects are similar and flow together.
Time becomes a fourth dimension that is similar to the three dimensions of
space. An event happening to an object can be described only as taking place at
a temporal and spatial distance from other events. An object�s movement can be
conceived of only as happening in relationship to other objects. This view
alone is expected to supply faultless explanations of certain processes in
physics, but assuming the existence of independent space and independent time
leads to contradictory thoughts about these processes.
When
we consider that many thinkers have accepted only those aspects of the natural
sciences that can be presented in mathematical terms, the theory of relativity
contains nothing less than the nullification of any real science of nature,
because the scientific aspect of mathematics was seen as lying in its ability
to ascertain the laws of space and time independent of observations of nature.
Now, in contrast, natural objects and natural processes are said to determine
spatial and temporal relationships; these objects and events are to provide the
mathematics. The only certain factor is surrendered to uncertainty. According
to this view, every thought of an essential reality that manifests its nature
in existence is precluded. Everything is only in relation to something else.
To
the extent that we human beings look at ourselves in the context of natural
objects and processes, we will not be able to escape the conclusions of this
theory of relativity. If, however, our experience of ourselves as beings
prevents us from losing ourselves in mere relativities as if in a state of soul
paralysis, we will no longer be permitted to seek intrinsic beingness in the
domain of nature but only above and beyond nature, in the kingdom of spirit. We
will not escape the theory of relativity with regard to the physical world, but
it will drive us into knowledge of the spirit.
The
significance of the theory of relativity lies in pointing out the need for
spirit knowledge that is sought by spiritual means and independently of our
observations of nature. That the theory of relativity forces us to think in
this way establishes its value in the evolution of our worldview.
From The Riddles of Philosophy (GA18), pp.
590-593
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