all reference-molluscs are equally valid

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An example of metaphor in science writing

"This non-rigid reference-body, which might appropriately be termed a 'reference-mollusc', is the main equivalent to a Gaussian four-dimensional co-ordinate system chosen arbitrarily. … The general principle of relativity requires that all these molluscs can be used as reference-bodies with equal right and equal success in the formulation of the general laws of nature; the laws themselves must be quite independent of the choice of mollusc."

Albert Einstein

Einstein, A. (2004). Relativity. The special and the general theory. (R. W. Lawson, Trans.). The Folio Society. (1916)

[Please be aware that a word may have different nuances, or even a different meaning, according to context.]« Back to Index