Proving the principle: Taking geodesic dynamics too seriously in Einstein's theory
Abstract
In this paper I critically review attempts to formulate and derive the geodesic principle, which claims that free massive bodies follow geodesic paths in general relativity theory. I argue that if the principle is (canonically) interpreted as a law of motion describing the actual evolution of gravitating bodies, then it is impossible to generically apply the law to massive bodies in a way that is coherent with Einstein's field equations. Rejecting the canonical interpretation, I propose an alternative interpretation of the geodesic principle as a type of universality thesis analogous to the universality behavior exhibited in thermal systems during phase transitions.
- Publication:
-
Studies in the History and Philosophy of Modern Physics
- Pub Date:
- May 2012
- DOI:
- 10.1016/j.shpsb.2011.12.002
- Bibcode:
- 2012SHPMP..43..137T
- Keywords:
-
- Geodesic principle;
- General relativity;
- Einstein;
- Universality;
- Singularity;
- Distribution theory;
- Scientific representation