The Einstein Theory of Relativity A Concise Statement

by Hendrik Antoon Lorentz

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Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Physics, Reference, Classics, Amazon, History

59 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 18, 2012

About the author

Hendrik Antoon Lorentz, Dutch physicist who shared the 1902 Nobel Prize in Physics with Pieter Zeeman for the discovery and theoretical explanation of the Zeeman effect. Lorentz also derived the transformation equations, which Albert Einstein interpreted as describing the true nature of space and time.

Reviews

[Nada Khaled · Rating 3 out of 5]

How to complain about a book whose author is a physicist who won Noble prize and is considered Einstein's Co-operator in this theory?!
Scientifically, It's impossible to say a word about it..
But for me, It was the first time to read about this tiring theory .. and indeed, a lot of things weren't understandable,, I got the main idea and somehow got the main principles that the theory based on, but I couldn't understand the theory itself and its detailed description..

Of course the book is good in general but couldn't be considered as an introduction for the theory though its shortness,, it needs a one who has scientific idea about it ..

I don't suggest it for beginners, so many parts would be misunderstood ..

I guess I've to read Einstein's book about "Relativity" to be able to get more information, details and discussion about it ..

[Megha Chakraborty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wanted to read some science book, and this was available free on Amazon to download, if you are really trying to understand relativity and don't have any science background, you'll be lost reading this. Lorentz did give a good summary, he himself is a great physicist. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it delivered what it promised.

So, if you want to learn something new go for it, it's a 28-page read and is knowledgeable.

Highly Recommended.

Happy Reading

[Bernie Gourley · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's hard to complain about this book because: a.) it's a free kindle book, b.) the author was brilliant, a Nobel Laureate, and a man whose work contributed to the discoveries of Einstein, and c.) it's a very short book, clocking in at about 60 pages, and so it's not a huge time investment--though for most it will be a bigger time investment than its page count would suggest.

All that being said, I'll be upfront and tell you that his work is the product of a different era and doesn't establish its audience clearly.

Science writing, particularly on subjects as arcane as relativity, is a challenge. One has to pick an audience and carefully write for that audience. If ones audience is broad (i.e. not well-trained in science), this means one has to accept a lot less precision in exchange for clarity. In other words, one has to write like Brian Greene or Michio Kaku do in their popular works. On the other hand, if you want to write for technical people, you should probably feel free to show your math and sling the technical jargon.

This book tries to walk a middle ground. It doesn't lay the subject out in clear, simple, and entertaining analogies. (With the exception of a moving car analogy early on that gets bogged down.) However, there're no equations or highly technical and jargon-suffused discussions. (Though the section on deflection of light does get into measurements and is bit technical.)

So the question the reader needs to ask themselves--provided they haven't had physics since high school or their freshman year of college--is whether they are willing and able to grind through reading that will require them to think hard the whole way. One doesn't need a big science vocabulary, and you aren't asked to ponder any equations, but you do have to noodle out what the author is saying to get value out of the reading. As I implied earlier, this book (pamphlet) took me considerably longer to read than 60 pages normally would--and I read a fair amount of popular science works.

Of course, given that it's free, it's worth a try if you have a Kindle. If you don't like it you can always buy a Greene or Kaku book to explain the subject in a more palatable fashion.

[Nada Elfeituri · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this mainly as a primer before I dived into Hawkings' A Brief History of Time. I figured it would be a good idea to read a summary of Einstein's theory of relativity since much of Brief History makes mention of it.

I think the author did a good job of summarizing what is obviously a very dense and specialized topic, although I felt that he didn't do as great a job in simplifying it. However, if you have some background on relativity, the idea will get through. To make an even more concise statement out of this essay, light is basically affected by gravity. If you remember your highschool physics, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle states that light is composed of both waves and particles, meaning that it will bend towards a strong gravitational pull.

Pretty easy to wrap your head around, right? The tough part is the implications of this phenomenon and how it affects other cosmological theories, especially black holes, which Hawkings covers in his books. There it starts to get more obtuse. But this booklet is a good intro to the theory for those with a basic understanding of physics.

[Sharanya · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is said that only 15 people in the world understand The theory of relativity completely. Well, at least I tried!

A short read, this book is supposed to serve as a background study before diving into the deeper stuff. Frankly, Physics and I haven't been on good terms since the age of dinosaurs. This was my n th attempt to get into better terms with it, sadly that wasn't going to happen with this book. Some of the stuff I could retain *Gasp* and the rest went over my head.

Unfortunately,I was expecting more of a "rock-bottom beginner" type of book, hence a 3 star rating.

[Swetha Chodavarpu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, I may be a little biased, but as a student of science, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Don't let the number of pages fool you; this book can provide you many hours of entertainment and knowledge should you choose to study it.
The theory of relativity is explained in layman terms with not a single mathematical formula included.
What is very fascinating is the comparison of this theory against Newtonian and Euclidean laws.
Lorentz himself is an amazing physicist. The paper presented by him is brilliant indeed.
A must read!

[Anjali Shankar Kumar · Rating 1 out of 5]

There were some interesting concepts explained here but overall I thought it was difficult to understand for a non-scientific person. I was hoping for a more simplified explanation of the theory. Instead, it felt rather convoluted.

[John Yelverton · Rating 4 out of 5]

While it is not gripping or compelling reading, it is a clear and concise explanation of Einstein's theory for lay people. It is especially valuable in explaining how several principles of Einstein's theory were proven even with the limited resources of his day and age.

[James · Rating 2 out of 5]

Heavy going due more to the style of the writing I suspect, although the subject material hardly makes it easy going.

[Sadman Sakib · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Cosmic Tapestry: A Philosophical Exploration of Relativity

Einstein's theory of relativity, while rooted in complex physics, offers a profound philosophical perspective that challenges our understanding of the universe and our place within it. This groundbreaking theory, particularly the famous equation E=mc², suggests a fundamental interconnectedness of all things, a cosmic dance of energy and matter.

This book delves into the philosophical implications of relativity, exploring how it aligns with ancient wisdoms and modern thought. It invites readers to consider the universe as a vast symphony of vibrating energy, where every particle, atom, and being is a note in this cosmic orchestra.
The author masterfully bridges the gap between science and spirituality, demonstrating how relativity can inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and our place within it. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all things, we can develop a sense of awe and wonder, fostering a more harmonious relationship with the universe.

Whether you're a seasoned physicist or a curious layperson, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the universe's mysteries. It's a reminder that even the most complex scientific theories can illuminate the profound truths of existence. Must Read!

[Bishnu Bhatta Buttowski · Rating 2 out of 5]

The only thing I enjoyed reading was, Lorentz writing "Einstein's theory has the very highest degree of aesthetic merit: every lover of beautiful must wish it to be true". Before reading a book which comes from a well known Physicist, I expected it to be vivid yet covering most of the phenomenon in brief as accounted by 'The Einstein Theory of Relativity', it was a disappointment.

Note:- If you think you'll get every brief details about the theory, you'll have to do diggings, its not enough. The book only highlights what has was the most breakthrough accounted by Relativity.

[Rafael Almada · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always like reading what these juggernauts wrote, because you have a good insight into what was their thought process. Lorentz is such an ethereal figure in physics that I found this book to be quite an enjoyable experience. It is a really short summary of Einstein's theory with no math involved so great if math intimidates you, and he does a good job demystifying relativity as a not so complicated idea to understand, at least on a conceptual level. Highly recommended, if only for its historical and scientific value. But certainly for more than that.

[Debyi Kucera (Book&BuJo) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Einstein Theory of Relativity by Hendrik Antoon Lorentz is an attempt at making this theory a bit more understandable for those with a science background. However, this is not written for those new to the topic with no science experience, like me.

It is a bit over my head but I still found it very interesting. Oh, and the author is a Nobel Laureate!

[Ruchika Pahwa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Value adding

A simple way to understand the relativity theory of Einstein...pick it up if you are looking for a smart short read.

[Sydney Austad]

General relativity girl summer

[B.L. Aldrich · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had to read it with the internet open so I could look up the concepts with which I wasn't familiar, but I can honestly say I enjoyed it because I was interested in the subject. Only because of that. It's scientific non-fiction, and very old, therefore dry as toast. But it was a nice break from my typical pleasure reading.

[Swateek · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of the complex yet famous theory explained a bit elaborate and I liked it. Perhaps it was my loss of touch on physics that there were certain direct things like Euclidean geometry that I couldn't remember, but the references of certain things used in the book was good.

Go for it if you are into a mood for some science.

[Mohammad Zaved Siddiqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Theory elucidated in most clear fashion.

Lorentz's is perhaps the one of the few who clearly understood the theory of relativity and in the book he shows why it is so. A must read for beginners.

[Fujin reads]

Rating it is difficult as per my knowledge now.


Didn't understand a bit of it. Have to read it again may be few more times (5+ times).

[Robert Rau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Einstein’s Theory of Relativity is an absolutely amazing scientific journal and theory. This book takes you on a intelligent and well thought out journey; each point and part of the theory is backed up. I am a 10th grader who has no experience in reading nor understanding with scientific theories, so I was somewhat confused and had to use outside research, such as Google. For example, one time I looked up what he was talking about I got back on track I did enjoy it. When it comes to the actual book, sadly I cannot give the thorey away because you have to read and learn that yourself, but I can share my evaluation of the book. After reading Einstein’s theory, it encouraged me to start reading two more Scientific journals. Before you begin reading this book, here are few pieces of advice: First, highlight or make notes where something doesn’t make sense; second, read the book without skipping over parts or you will be confused; third, once you are done reading the book explore further, this book is to give you a jump start in the science field I assure you once you read you will want to know more. Loved the book, and now I have a higher appreciation for Einstein’s theories. In the future I want to work as a Biochemist. Yes this book has to do with Physics and space. Although everything in the science field are connected in a tight web. I am also sure once I go off to college we will need to read this book and fully understand the impact it has had on all scientist around the world. Overall, I cannot relate to anyone in this book for many reasons seeing it is not based on a person rather a theory of Physics and so much more, but I feel everyone who reads it will take at least something away and will love to show off to their friends what they have learned. I enjoyed this book, I enjoyed it for many reasons from the intelligent wording and the how deep it got on such a fundamental subject, and to the point it turned my world upside down. My favorite part of the book is the first half: First, I wasn’t so confused then secondly, It introduced and set up things that you need to know for the rest of the book. My least favorite part is the middle I had a hard time to trying to stay with it. I will warn you, TAKE BREAKS. There is only so much information you can handle at once. Well it is Einstein so I wouldn’t expect anything less. Although the scientific reasoning behind some of the theory were very hard to understand and grasp through reading it the first time. Just do not go through the book not knowing what he is talking about look it up and fully understand the book. This book is not for your average person. I know when I read it no one in my school besides some teachers heard of the theory. Although if you are thirsty for learning and wanting to understand the unexplainable. This book is very worthwhile for many reasons such as learning new things, having intelligent conversations, and expanding what you are use to. The only thing that is not worthwhile about reading this book is the only real way you can apply it is if you are going into a science major or field. Overall, this book is amazing but confusing; once again take notes and truly understand the theory. Hope you found this review helpful; happy learning.

[Anitha Ponraj · Rating 3 out of 5]

புத்தகம் : The Einstein Theory of Relativity
Author : H. A. Lorentz
Pages : 27
Publication : Kindle (public domain book)

பள்ளி நாட்களில் வாசித்த அல்லது படித்த பல புத்தகங்களும் கருத்துக்களும் அப்பொழுது மதிப்பெண்களுக்காக மனப்பாடம் செய்து எழுதியவையாகவே இருந்திருக்கிறது.

வாய்ப்பு கிடைத்தவற்றை மதிப்பெண்களுக்காக இல்லாமல் புரிந்து கொள்வதற்காக மீண்டும் வாசித்து வருகிறேன். அப்படி பள்ளி நாளில் படித்த, இப்போதும் நினைவில் இருக்கும் ஆனால் இதுவரை புரியாத E= mc2 ஐ ஓப்பன்ஹெமர் திரைப்படத்தில் ஐன்ஸ்டீனை பார்த்தபின் வாசிக்க ஆர்வம் தோன்றி தொடங்கிய புத்தகம் தான் இது.

ஐன்ஸ்டீனுடன் சேர்ந்து சார்புக் கோட்பாடை (Theory of Relativity) உருவாக்க உதவிய சக இயற்பியலாளரான ஹ. ஏ. லோரண்ட்ஸ் அதை எளிமையாக அனைவரும் புரிந்து கொள்ளும் விதத்தில் விளக்கியிருக்கும் பொதுவுடைமையாக்கப்பட்ட புத்தகம்.

புத்தகம் தொடங்கும் போதோ ஐன்ஸ்டீனின் இந்த கோட்பாட்டை உலகளவில் புரிந்து கொண்டவர்கள் 12 பேர் தான் என்ற குறிப்புடன் தொடங்கும் புத்தகத்தை வாசித்து முடிக்கும் போது கண்டிப்பாக அந்த 12 பேரில் நான் இருப்பதற்கு வாய்ப்பில்லை என்பது தெளிவாகிறது.

ஐன்ஸ்டீனின் கணக்குகள், சமன்பாடுகள் என எதுவும் இல்லாமல் எளிமையாக ஒரு கிரகன நேரத்தில் ஏற்பட்ட மாறுதல்கள் ஐன்ஸ்டீனின் கோட்பாட்டை உறுதிப்படுத்த அதனால் ஆர்வமடைந்த வானியலாளர்கள் , சூரியக்குடும்பத்தில் உள்ள கோள்களின் நகர்வுகளின் தனித்தன்மைகளை விளக்க முடிந்ததைக் குறித்து புத்தகத்தில் விளக்கப் பட்டிருக்கிறது.

அதுவரை நேரமும் காலவெளியும் தற்சார்புடையவை, சூரியனோ பிற கோள்களோ நட்சத்திரங்களோ இல்லை என்றாலும் அவை இயங்கும் என்று நம்பப்பட்டது. ஆனால் அவை ஒன்றுடன் ஒன்று தொடர்புடையவை என்பது ஆய்வில் தெளிவாகிறது .

பூமியை ஒரு நகரும் தொடர் வண்டியின் பெட்டிக்கு ஒப்பிட்டு அதன் மூலம் சார்பு கோட்பாட்டை புரிய வைக்க முயற்சிக்கிறார் ஆசிரியர் .

நியூட்டனின் கோட்பாட்டில் உள்ள குறைபாடுகளை ஐன்ஸ்டீனின் கோட்பாட்டில் சரி செய்திருக்கிறார்.

இயற்பியல் துறையில் உள்ளவர்களுக்கு ஒரு வேளை இந்த புத்தகம் தெளிவாக புரியலாம். மாற்றவர்களுக்கு அத்தனை எளிதாக புரியும் என்று தோன்றவில்லை.

[Aušrinė · Rating 3 out of 5]

In "The Einstein Theory of Relativity", Hendrik Antoon Lorentz tries to explain the relativity theory in simpler terms as it is very hard to grasp. I wouldn't say that Lorentz's explanation will be understandable by masses, but he makes a very good effort to illustrate the theory. The most interesting part for me was the description on how the relativity theory was proven - even a specific numbers are given.

-----
2020-ųjų skaitymo iššūkis
II lygis
23. Olandų literatūra.
H. A. Lorentzas buvo Leideno universiteto Olandijoje profesorius.

[Forked Radish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here are ten reasons why relativity is so hard to gasp:
1) The mathematical aspect is really only useful for practical applications.
2) The legacy of the disproven Newtonian law of gravity.
3) There are multiple viewpoints to consider e.g. someone on a train looking out, someone on the ground watching the train etc. which completely change the observations.
4) All known writers except Einstein himself (including Lorentz) have failed to understand the concept.
5) Einstein was fluent in German, not English.
6) Einstein's persistent belief in the ether, fields, forces, laws, and other imaginings.
7) The ridiculous chimera of electromagnetism intrudes itself often.
8) About 20 years of devotion are necessary for its comprehension.
9) The idea of an overarching teleonomic determinacy that persists to this day.
10) The general and total misunderstanding of the universal paradigm i.e. that this is reality.

[Sanil · Rating 3 out of 5]

For people who want to know what this theory is, it is a good read. It explains it quite nicely given that there are only a few people on Earth who actually understand this theory 100%. However, you need to have some knowledge about science otherwise you would be lost.

I would have rated this book a 3.5 to be honest. It falls a bit short of my expectation. Although I have a science background, I felt that this book could have been a bit more easy to understand for someone without a science background.

This book is basically the theory of relativity explained in English minus the math and much of the scientific jargon.

[Kubany Csongor · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a very clear and comprehensive summary of Einstein's theory of relativity. The best part of it that you do not have to possess the mathematical apparatus to understand it. Of course it it is not replace the knowledge of necessary mathematics, but it comes as close as it possible to summarise Einstein's works for the non-"qualified" folks.
Like it or not, theoretical physics's language is math. If you not master it, you have to "believe", you will not understand it completely.

[Ed Barton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Readable Plain Language Einstein

Trying to understand Einstein at the academic level is beyond most of our abilities. However, this nearly 100 year old synopsis of Einstein’s theory of relativity is a great intro and approachable read. Not for the intellectually lazy, it takes a couple reads to get even in this format. However, you’ll have a better feel for space and time and the interaction between them.

[Wen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating and rich

Bite-sized illustrations of Einstein’s monumental discovery are educational even if only in the way that it exemplifies proof and a snapshot of the man’s genius. Can be difficult to digest for those like myself not fluent in physics and astronomy but it is as digestible as one could hope to make it in less than 100 pages.

[Hriday · Rating 3 out of 5]

One could make a beginning with this to understand the most complex theory of all time. It would have been much better if the author had decided to list down the postulates and explain why Einstein says so instead of introducing random examples.

After all this, I am not sure how the GR is different from the SR and where E=mc2 fits into all this. Perhaps, i should read more on the topic.

[Gaurav Jindal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Einstein for common folks without confusing maths.

Theory of relativity was explained briefly with the help of examples and adequate simplicity. Lorentz being scholar himself, was able to understand the reader's difficulty in understanding complex scientific theories and tried to simplify it for us. Thanks H.A. Lorentz for your efforts.

[Caroline · Rating 2 out of 5]

An ok introduction. I think i came into this book expecting something different. I expected either a really deep and meticulous explanation of the hard science, or an extrmley relaxed explanation meant for the average laymen. This was neither of those things, rather some bizzare midway between the two.