Many people, however, are of the mistaken opinion that the theory of relativity leads to paradoxes of logic or inconsistencies. But when we analyse their arguments we are always confronted with the same erroneous method of reasoning. In many cases the critics seem to have a very hazy idea of the premises on which the theory is built. Others, while stating that for the sake of argument they are willing to recognise the validity of these premises, appear to forget their good intentions before reaching the end of their discussion. Inadvertently, in the very middle of their demonstrations, they relapse into the premises of classical science and, of course, are led to insufferable contradictions; whereupon they conclude that the theory of relativity leads to inconsistent results. Let us consider, for example, the relativity of duration. A number of clocks or atoms which beat at the same rate and mark the same time when placed side by side are displaced along different routes to the same terminal point. The relativity theory then demands that when set side by side once again they shall be marking different times. The critic immediately exclaims: “This is inconsistent!” But where is the inconsistency? There would be inconsistency, indeed, had Einstein started out by positing as an axiom that time was absolute. This, in fact, is precisely what the critic has done. But then, when, as a result of this uncalled-for presupposition, he finds that the theory leads him into inconsistencies, he should not blame Einstein; for the theory is inconsistent not with itself as a logical structure, but solely with the critic’s own presuppositions. Of course, the source of all the trouble lies in the fact that a belief in the absoluteness of duration has become second nature to us; and it requires a certain effort of introspection on our part for us to realise that this belief presents no rational justification. Eventually, however, our ideas become clarified, and we concede that we have no means of figuring out a priori whether time will be absolute or relative. We realise that it is impossible to lay down the law at the start one way or the other, unless we wish to force nature into a preconceived mould—which may not fit.