

55 | A Conversation with Rob Reid on Quantum Mechanics and Many Worlds
Jul 15, 2019
Rob Reid, an accomplished author and podcaster known for his science fiction novel 'After On', interviews Sean Carroll about quantum mechanics and the Many-Worlds interpretation. They delve into historical debates, including Einstein vs. Bohr, and explore how observer influence can lead to different quantum realities. Reid and Carroll also discuss the philosophical implications of choice within quantum frameworks, even touching on a fun app that simulates universe-splitting decisions. Prepare for a fascinating journey through the complexities of existence!
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Hidden Quantum Research
- Physicists face ridicule or career damage for delving into quantum mechanics' foundations.
- John Bell hid his foundational work from CERN colleagues.
Quantum Mechanics' Birthday
- The 1927 Solvay Conference solidified modern quantum mechanics but sidelined foundational questions.
- Bohr's pragmatic approach won over Einstein's deeper inquiry, prioritizing practical applications.
Newtonian Physics
- Classical mechanics, according to Newton, uses position and velocity to predict everything.
- Knowing these variables for everything lets you predict the entire universe's past and future.