Meaning: Ernst Mach, a physicist and philosopher, made significant contributions to the fields of physics and psychology. His quote, "Physics is experience, arranged in economical order," reflects his perspective on the nature of physics and the scientific method. In this quote, Mach emphasizes the importance of experience and observation in understanding the physical world, as well as the need for organizing this knowledge in a logical and efficient manner.

Mach's emphasis on experience as the foundation of physics aligns with the empirical approach to science, which emphasizes the role of observation and experimentation in developing scientific theories. According to this approach, scientific knowledge is derived from sensory experience and empirical evidence, rather than abstract reasoning or speculation. By prioritizing experience, Mach highlights the fundamental role of observation in the scientific process, suggesting that our understanding of the physical world is rooted in our direct interactions with it.

Furthermore, Mach's concept of arranging experience in "economical order" suggests the importance of organizing and systematizing empirical knowledge in a coherent and efficient manner. This notion speaks to the role of scientific theories and models in making sense of diverse observations and phenomena. In physics, the process of arranging experience in economical order involves the formulation of principles, laws, and theories that can explain a wide range of phenomena in a parsimonious and coherent manner. By organizing experience in this way, scientists can develop a deeper understanding of the natural world and make predictions about future observations.

Mach's quote also reflects his broader philosophical stance, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of experience, perception, and knowledge. As a proponent of empiricism, Mach argued that our understanding of the world is shaped by our sensory experiences and that scientific theories should be grounded in these experiences. His philosophical perspective influenced his approach to physics, leading him to advocate for a more holistic and integrated understanding of the physical world.

In addition to his contributions to the philosophy of science, Mach made significant contributions to the field of mechanics, particularly in the study of shock waves and the velocity of sound. His work on the Mach number, which represents the ratio of an object's speed to the speed of sound in a medium, has had a lasting impact on the field of fluid dynamics and aeronautics.

Mach's quote continues to resonate with scientists and philosophers, highlighting the enduring relevance of his ideas about the nature of physics and the scientific method. By emphasizing the central role of experience and the need to organize this experience in a systematic and efficient manner, Mach's quote encapsulates key principles of empirical science and the quest for a deeper understanding of the natural world.