CHAPTER I. The Evolution of Physics

THE EVOLUTION OF PHYSICS

Revolutionary change in modern Physics only apparent: evolution not revolution the rule in Physical Theory-- Revival of metaphysical speculation and influence of Descartes: all phenomena reduced to matter and movement-- Modern physicists challenge this: physical, unlike mechanical, phenomena seldom reversible--Two schools, one considering experimental laws imperative, the other merely studying relations of magnitudes: both teach something of truth--Third or eclectic school-- Is mechanics a branch of electrical science?