On the structure of space-time

TLDR: In each case, we are informed in almost sepulchral tones of the existence of something perfect against which all relative, operational measures are to be compared, and yet we lack the standard by which such perfection is to be understood.

Abstract: What is absolute space and absolute time? We have often heard that the theory of relativity has banished them, and yet Newton’s (1946) famous characterization of these ideas leaves us in the dark as to exactly what relativity has discredited: Absolute, true and mathematical time of itself and from its own nature flows equibly without regard to anything external. Absolute space in its own nature without regard to anything external, remains always similar and immovable. Despite the fact that Newton assures us that the concepts of absolute space and time are not being defined, we have the same feeling of un­easiness that accompanies Euclid’s (1956) equally famous characterization of straight lines : A line is breadthless length. A straight line is a line which lies evenly with the points on itself. In each case, we are informed in almost sepulchral tones of the existence of something perfect against which all relative, operational measures are to be compared, and yet we lack the standard by which such perfection is to be understood.