Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 36 | David Albert on Quantum Measurement and the Problems with Many-Worlds
Mar 4, 2019
David Albert joins the host to discuss the measurement problem in quantum mechanics. They delve into the Many-Worlds interpretation, exploring skepticism towards this theory. The conversation explores historical influences, hidden variables, and rational decision-making in uncertain quantum scenarios.
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Expulsion Proceedings for Foundational Questions
- David Albert's interest in foundational questions during his physics PhD at Rockefeller University led to expulsion proceedings.
- He stayed, but had to write a computationally heavy thesis on a topic assigned by the department, which he resented.
Galileo Quote Thesis Epigram
- Upon submitting his thesis, Albert included a Galileo quote suggesting the Earth's movement despite recanting it to the Inquisition.
- The physics department was initially offended, highlighting the tension between Albert's foundational interests and the department's focus.
The Missing Thesis
- Albert intentionally didn't submit the final thesis copy after his defense, only to be contacted 10 years later by the librarian.
- He reacted with feigned outrage, accusing them of losing a non-existent final copy, which they miraculously 'found,' resolving his decade-long fear.