E149 -- Reflexions sur l'espace et le tems

(Reflections on space and time)


Summary:
Euler outlays his views on the relation between Metaphysics and Mechanics. The truths of mechanics are "so indubitably constant" that they must be founded in the natures of bodies. Metaphysics is the study of the nature of bodies, therefore the laws of Mechanics constrain Metaphysical theories. In fact, any Metaphysical idea or conclusion corresponding to a Mechanical one must agree in all its implications with Mechanics. This applies in particular to space and time. Real, absolute, space and time are assumed by the laws of Mechanics. Therefore, Metaphysical arguments for the unreality of space and time must be unfounded and "hide some parlogism".
According to C. G. J. Jacobi, a treatise with this title was presented to the Berlin Academy on February 1, 1748.

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