One hundred years ago, in November 1915, Albert Einstein achieved his long-sought theory of gravitation: the General Theory of Relativity. In developing the General Theory, Einstein brought together ideas from philosophy, mathematics, and physics, to create a remarkable new conception of gravity, space, and time. His work is a model of the engagement between philosophy and science that is the main mission of the Rotman Institute of Philosophy. To celebrate the achievements of the 20th century’s greatest philosopher-scientist, the Rotman Institute is pleased to announce Einstein@Rotman 2015 – a year-long program of activities for both scholars and the general public, centred around the stunning successes and enduring mysteries of Einstein’s ideas.
Already announced as part of Einstein@Rotman 2015 is this year’s annual philosophy of physics conference, Gravity and Geometry: Centenary Perspectives on General Relativity, from June 6-7, 2015. Participants will present physical, philosophical, and historical reflections on Einstein’s theory of gravity and space-time geometry, its development over the past century, and its future prospects. The conference will include speakers John Norton (University of Pittsburgh), Michael Friedman (Stanford University), Lee Smolin (Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics) and others. For more information on the conference, email carl.hoefer@uwo.ca, or rdisalle@uwo.ca.
The inaugural lecture, Gravity, Geometry, Philosophy: 100 Years in Einstein’s Universe by Robert DiSalle, will occur on March 2nd at 7pm. Other public lectures will be announced soon.
Above: photo by Capitan Jen of the sculpture of Einstein by StudioEIS in the Griffith Observatory.
