!!!Mach, Ernst

b. Tuřany, Czech Republic (then Turas), Feb. 18, 1838, 
d. Vaterstetten (Germany), Feb. 19, 1916, physicist and philosopher; 
1866 Professor of Mathematics at the University of Graz, 1867 
Professor of Physics in Prague (1879/80 Rector), 1895 to 181901 in 
Vienna. M. found experimental proof for the Doppler Effect (Christian  
Doppler) and by inspection of fast moving projectiles proposed the 
Mach's principle. The "Mach Number" named after him describes the 
relation of a body's velocity to sonic speed. Also carried out optical 
experiments. From a philosophical point of view his attitude was 
characterized by empirical thinking based on scientific findings; 
concentrated on questions of measurability. Exerted an important 
influence on the philosophers of the  Vienna Circle. One of his 
strictest opponents and critics was M. Planck.

!Publications
Die Mechanik in ihrer Entwicklung, 1883; Beitraege zur 
Analyse der Empfindungen, 1886; Die Prinzipien der Waermelehre, 1896; 
Erkenntnis und Irrtum, 1905; Kultur und Mechanik, 1916.

!Literature
F. Stadler, Vom Positivismus zur wiss. Weltauffassung am 
Beispiel der Wirkungsgeschichte von E. M. in Oe. von 1895-1934, 1982; 
J. Thide, E. M., in: Centaurus 8, 1963 (with bibliography); OeBL; NDB.



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