Absolute theory

According to the absolute theory of space, it is a homogeneous structure which exists and is independent of other things. It was proposed that the universe was finite in extent and was said to have begun in time. The theory was also promoted by Newton's followers including Samuel Clarke and Roger Cotes during the 17th and 18th centuries. == Related theories ==

An absolute theory is the opposite of a relational theory. Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, the main proponent of relational theory, argued that there is no absolute space and time. He maintained that space is not independent nor a container of the matter that occupies it, explaining that physical objects or forces are ordered spatially and that space is merely a system of relations. According to the relational theory, without objects, there is no space. Martin Heidegger's theory of space also opposes the absolute theory, with the criticism that it is founded on metaphysical dichotomy of separated subject and object. He maintained that this nature keeps absolute theory from explaining the true nature of space. == References ==