2. Introduction and Scope
This document makes a conceptual review of elements of the special theory
of relativity, with some reference to the general theory as well. It
reviews some experimental evidence, and outlines an alternative theory
based on Ritzian principles.
Of necessity, it is a conceptual outline. The general section does not go into mathematics
or the numbers concerned. While certainly not a walk in the garden park,
it is intended to be read by anyone with a basic understanding of physics
or relativity, as might be obtained through reading sf, popular science
or formal education.
I hope it might also be read by someone completely new to relativity -
hey, give it a try, let me know how it goes !!!
This "conceptual outline only" is reasonable in the light of two things :-
First, arguments in favour of relativity centre around it being the only
possible conceptual explanation together with it being the only theory
which gets all the numbers right.
If this document establishes a prima facie case for a alternative
conceptual explanation for what goes on around us, then we have made
a first step. Certainly, the proponents of relativity will then be
sticklers about "the numbers" and "the mathematics", but it will be a
definite step forward.
Second, I am working on mathematical expositions of the principles
outlined in this paper. I have a reasonably positive dialogue with a
University department. I suspect I've worked myself up from being
considered a crank to someone at the fringes of "real science".
I have made some progress with the mathematics of Ritzian electrodynamics
as compared to conventional electrodynamics. It is still a large task
for one person to come to grips with. Depending on how things go, I
may put some of this mathematical material on this web page. I might
try to get it published in some journal which is a measured trade off
between reputability and being willing to publish my work in the first
place.
A first section has a FAQ, answering general questions of a stand
alone nature. The document then incorporates sections on Relativity,
Ritzian Theory, Fields and the Ether, and a section looking at how
spacecraft might travel faster than the speed of light. (Before you jump
to conclusions, Ritzian theory does * not * make use of the ether.)
This document is copyright. It can be copied and distributed freely as long
as it is not altered and no charge is placed on the recipient, nor may it
be distributed as part of a profit making exercise.
This page was last updated on Jul 28, 2001