Absolute Velocities Are Unmeasurable: Response to Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez

Abstract

In this journal, Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez argue that absolute velocity is measurable, contrary to the received wisdom. Specifically, they claim that 'there exists at least one reasonable analysis of measurement according to which the speedometer in [a world called 'the Basic World'] measures the absolute velocity of the car'. In this note I critically respond to this claim: the analysis of measurement that Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez propose is neither reasonable, nor does it entail that absolute velocities are measurable.

Symmetries and Measurements

“…For opposite positions on what worlds count as nearby, seeJacobs (2020) andMiddleton and Murgueitio Ramírez (2022).14 Luc seems to neglect this case by considering boosts of all the objects, including the railroad. But it is not clear why we should do that if we are considering measurements of the train in the Basic World (to the very least, more would have to be said about what the set-up conditions of this case are, and about what kinds of other things we are allowed to vary).…”

“…11 11 Jacobs [2020, p. 206] offers a different argument against Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez (2020) that appeals to counterpart theory. For a reply, see Middleton and Ramírez [2022, pp.…”

“…In any of these words, the speedometer will indicate “REST,” and so condition (3) of Jacob's account will be satisfied. See Jacobs (2020) and Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez (2022) for a more extended discussion.…”

“…13 13 For opposite positions on what worlds count as nearby, see Jacobs (2020) and Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez (2022). …”

The Nature of a Constant of Nature: The Case of G

“… 20 The argument that variant quantities are undetectable is found in Roberts (2008), Dasgupta (2016), and Martens (2021). Middleton and Murgueitio Ramírez (2021) are skeptical, but see Jacobs (2022a) for a response. …”