The Ether by Ramsey

This book is essentially a visual explanation/interpretation of relativity. It is somewhat analogous to Einstein’s relativity, but the preferred frame is now the ether and not the observer. In addition, it is not mathematical but rather visual in nature, so the average individual can easily picture it, therefore, understand it.

Einstein’s relativity theories (SRT, GRT), as well as quantum mechanics (QM), are extremely difficult to fully grasp without the use of intricate mathematics. For instance, four–dimensional space–time is not easily visualized. In addition, quantum mechanics utilizes mathematical relationships that correctly predict outcomes, even though the theory makes no visual common sense. As a result, it is exceedingly difficult for the average person to appreciate them, let alone understand them. Here is a statement by the famous quantum physicist Richard Feynman, a Nobel Laureate, supporting this belief, ”If you think you understand QM, then you don’t understand QM.”

In contrast, this publication uses three–dimensional space, logic, and a few equations to postulate a new alternative theory that encompasses, moreover, interconnects SRT, GRT, and QM. It is the author’s conviction that modern–day physics (regarding relativity and QM) has lost sight of reality by using complex mathematical equations to produce correct outcomes. Nevertheless, the math employed does not characterize the actual and true universe. This paradox is apparent with present–day high school/college physics courses, whereby students often manipulate equations with no basic understanding as to how the math represents reality. For instance, to clarify this divergence of mathematics versus reality, follow this logic. There are several methods by which math (and geometry) can portray the physics of the solar system, such as the Ptolemaic versus Copernican theories. With the use of mathematics, both theories accurately predict the orbital mechanics of the solar system, but one represents reality while the other does not. It is generally accepted that the best theory is the simplest (Copernican and Kepler), or in other words, Occam’s razor—the theory that is closest to what makes common sense (Copernican and Kepler). In essence, determining the best theory should be pursued first, then followed by the mathematics. The point being, the focus should be on the theory representing reality rather than just mathematics. Consequently, the aim of this book is on the three-dimensional explanation of relativity and not mathematics.

Given that, then consider this. If the concepts presented in this book are correct, what is more, ideas by which the average individual can comprehend/visualize, then perhaps, not just a select few, but the vast majority of us, know, understand, and appreciate the new theory of relativity (the ether).