Time&Eternity

Time in the Formulation of Scientific Theory 147
the space coordinates, but also the time coordinate, are different. For this
reason, in the theory of relativity, the static, continuous conception of
space-time is the more useful and objective one. Einstein concedes, “Indeed,
we can, if we so desire, continue to work with the dynamic manner of
representation also within the framework of the theory of relativity; but
then we must always consider that splitting into time and space has no objective
significance, since, for us, time is no longer absolute.” 173 In the
“Minkowski World,” physics was transformed from an event in threedimensional
space into an existence in this four-dimensional world. 174 Because
in this four-dimensional continuum there are “no more sections that
objectively represent the ‘now’, the concept of the event and becoming is not
completely abolished, but rather, is made more complicated.” 175 For this
reason, Einstein prefers “to think of the physically real as a four-dimensional
existence, instead of, as previously, as the becoming of a three-dimensional
existence.” 176
A distinction between space and time that likewise deviates from everyday
understanding is linked to the constancy of the speed of light. The
speed of light permits causality between two events only when the events lie
within the particular area that light, with its finite speed, can reach at a certain
time. Graphically, this area corresponds to a cone that, with infinite
speed of light, would be opened up to the x level. Events that lie within a
light cone are characterized as being situated timelike to one another.
Events that lie outside a light cone are characterized as being situated spacelike
to one another.
t
x=ct
FUTURE
t
x=ct
PRE-
SENT
PRE- FUTURE
SENT
PAST
PRE-
SENT
PAST
PRE-
SENT
Light Cone and Ordering of Past, Present, and Future
Light Cone and Ordering of Past, Present, and Future
x
x