Philosophical Idealism and Modern Physics

In this podcast episode, Kieran Quinn discusses the concept of philosophical idealism and its connection to modern physics. Philosophical idealism, or immaterialism, posits that only ideas and minds exist. Bishop George Barkley is highlighted as an important figure associated with this doctrine. Barkley's denial of the existence of matter as a metaphysical substance is explained, emphasizing that he did not reject the empirical reality of the external world. The discussion then turns to quantum mechanics and the challenges it presents to our understanding of reality. A contemporary physicist, Professor Richard Henry, is mentioned as an advocate for idealism in response to modern physics. Henry argues that physics supports the idea that the universe is mental, publishing his metaphysical views in scientific journals. The debate surrounding interpretations of quantum mechanics is described, highlighting the counterintuitive nature of the theory. The symmetries observed in the universe and the conservation of quantities are discussed, leading Henry to argue that the universe is mental. Quinn expresses his personal appeal to philosophical idealism, finding it consistent with modern science and a response to the criticisms of materialism.