The German-language philosopher Oskar Kraus produced a critique of Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity in 1925, characterizing the constancy of the speed of light and related concepts as mathematical fictions. A member of the School of Brentano, he spent much of his career navigating the intersection of jurisprudence, ethics, and value theory within the academic framework of Austria–Hungary.
Academic Trajectory in Prague
Born in 1872 in Prague, Kraus pursued studies in both jurisprudence and philosophy at the Faculty of Law within the German University in Prague. His intellectual development was shaped by Anton Marty and Friedrich Jodl, who facilitated his engagement with Franz Brentano’s philosophy. By 1895, he had earned his Doctor of Philosophy, subsequently achieving habilitation in 1902. His tenure at Charles University saw him rise to the position of Professor extraordinarius in 1909, followed by his appointment as Professor ordinarius in 1916.
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Kraus specialized in developing an a priori value theory, which he expressly positioned against Marxian value theory. This methodology extended into the study of economics and the field of public international law, particularly regarding ethics and war. His work in jurisprudence focused on developing a juristic hermeneutics while critiquing positivism and historism. Notable publications include his 1911 investigation into the right to punish, "Das Recht zu strafen," and his 1937 history and critique of value theories.
Final Years and Emigration
Following the occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1939, Kraus was briefly detained in a concentration camp. After securing his release, he managed to escape to Great Britain. He continued his academic contributions by delivering the Gifford Lectures at the University of Edinburgh in 1941. Kraus died of cancer in Oxford on 26 September 1942 at the age of 70.
Fast facts
- Born: 1872, Prague
- Died: 26 September 1942, Oxford
- Citizenship: Austria–Hungary
- Spouse: Bertha Chitz (m. 1899)
- Son: Wally Oskarovich Kraus (1930–1981)
- Academic Home: Charles University
- Field: Philosophy and Jurisprudence
- Key Influence: Franz Brentano
Questions readers ask
What was Oskar Kraus’s stance on the theory of relativity?
He criticized the theory as a collection of absurdities and mathematical fictions in his 1925 work, specifically targeting the constancy of the speed of light.
Did Oskar Kraus hold professional roles outside of philosophy?
Yes, he was a trained jurist and held positions as a university teacher, ultimately becoming a Professor ordinarius at Charles University.
Achievements
- Held posts at Charles University
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