Minkowski space-time: a glorious non-entity

TL;DR

This paper critiques the view that Minkowski space-time serves as the deep structure of special relativity, arguing instead for a dynamical, force-based approach to a constructive theory.

Contribution

It challenges the claim that Minkowski space-time underpins a constructive reformulation of special relativity, emphasizing the importance of dynamical force interactions.

Findings

Minkowski space-time is not the deep structure of special relativity.

A constructive theory requires a dynamical treatment of forces.

The paper clarifies the distinction between principle and constructive theories.

Abstract

Einstein distinguished between ``principle'' and ``constructive'' theories in physics, and although he thought the latter were more explanatory than the former, he regarded his 1905 formulation of special relativity theory as a principle theory. Some have claimed that Minkowski space-time can serve as the deep structure within a constructive reformulation of special relativity. We criticise this claim, and argue that a satisfactory constructive version of special relativity must involve a dynamical treatment of the forces holding together the constitutive parts of moving rods and clocks.