[Phys-L] Re: Energy is primary and fundamental?

[betwys1 at SBCGLOBAL.NET (Brian Whatcott)]

At 01:52 PM 8/17/2005, you wrote:
> > I would be interested in your definition of force...not referring to
> > Newton's laws, since that would be circular and your inference is
> > that somehow force is more fundamental than energy...so don't define
> > it in terms of energy either.
>
> Folks, why is this so difficult?  The idea of "energy " is an INVENTION for
> Pete's sake.  If you think that the idea of "force" is similar, let me
> smack you on the nose once or twice....
>
> Jim Green

Jim thinks a smack on the nose is an ample demonstration of the physics
abstract called "force"   In my view he is mistaken.

I believe I can apply a larger force than a smack from my hand,
to his nose, and he will be completely unmoved - and unhurt.
So blood and gore cannot be the tell-tale consequence he has in mind,
or at least should not be.


Brian Whatcott    Altus OK    Eureka!