Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal Jonathan Gorard: Quantum Gravity & Wolfram Physics Project
21 snips
Mar 29, 2024 Jonathan Gorard, a researcher in mathematical physics at Princeton, discusses the groundbreaking Wolfram Physics Project. He explores how it attempts to unify physics through category theory and its implications for quantum gravity. The conversation highlights the philosophical nuances of observation in physics, the role of computational irreducibility, and the significance of entropy as observer-dependent. Gorard also examines the challenges of academic publishing and reflects on how science and spirituality can coexist, shedding light on the fascinating intersections of these fields.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Wolfram Physics Project Overview
- The Wolfram Physics Project explores discrete models for fundamental physics, using tools like graphs and networks.
- This approach contrasts with traditional calculus-based models, offering a different perspective on space, time, and dynamics.
NKS Influence
- Jonathan Gorard read Stephen Wolfram's "A New Kind of Science" as a teenager and found it impactful, despite some off-putting aspects.
- He badgered Wolfram for years to pursue these ideas further, eventually leading to the Wolfram Physics Project.
Tools vs. Reality
- People often conflate powerful tools with fundamental reality, like mistaking math or computation for the substance of the universe.
- Gorard and Wolfram differ philosophically; Gorard sees computational models as useful tools, not ontological truths.
