Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 222 | Andrew Strominger on Quantum Gravity and the Real World
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Jan 9, 2023 Andrew Strominger, Gwill E. York Professor of Physics at Harvard and a leading mind in string theory and quantum gravity, discusses the challenges of merging quantum mechanics with gravity. He highlights the key historical figures in quantum gravity and the evolution of string theory, including insights on black holes and their entropy. The conversation covers the complexities of theoretical physics, emergent symmetries, and the relevance of holography. Strominger emphasizes the importance of staying connected to real-world phenomena as physicists navigate these intricate concepts.
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Discouraged Pursuit
- Andy Strominger's advisor discouraged him from pursuing quantum gravity, predicting he wouldn't find a job.
- Despite this, Strominger followed his passion, and his advisor later admitted he was glad Strominger didn't listen.
Initial Skepticism
- Early string theory lacked elegance and seemed like a technical fix, not a deep conceptual shift.
- Despite initial skepticism, Strominger recognized the theory's potential to reconcile quantum mechanics and general relativity.
Connecting to the Real World
- Strominger's work on compactifying extra dimensions connected string theory to the observable four-dimensional world.
- This led to a surge in string theory research, as it offered a path towards unifying fundamental forces.
