(1) The Mathematical Theory of Relativity (2) The Einstein Delusion and other Essays

Abstract

THE two books grouped together in this notice deal with relativity, but in quite different ways, and whilst the first forms a very important contribution to our knowledge of this subject, the second has only an ephemeral interest and can be disposed of quickly. It consists of a series of essays, the principal one dealing with relativity, the rest with various other topics, mainly mechanical. The tone is severely critical and dogmatic to a degree, not at all justified by the knowledge of the subject matter exhibited by the author. It is sufficient to state as an example that, in the essay on relativity, exhaustive reference is made to numerous popular writings on the subject, but scarcely any to the original publications of Einstein himself or his successors. Surely it is not too much to expect that a critic should show some familiarity with original sources, if he wishes his criticisms to be taken seriously.

(1) The Mathematical Theory of Relativity.

By Prof. Th. de Donder. Pp. x + 102. (Cambridge, Mass.: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1927.) 2.75 dollars.

(2) The Einstein Delusion and other Essays.

By L. A. Redman. Pp. 217. (San Francisco: A. M. Robertson, 1926.) 2.50 dollars.