Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

What 100 Years of Quantum Physics Got Wrong | Jacob Barandes Λ Manolis Kellis

Feb 4, 2025

Jacob Barandes, a theoretical physicist and philosopher from Harvard, and Manolis Kellis, a computational biologist from MIT, dive into the intriguing interplay between quantum physics, biology, and consciousness. They challenge traditional interpretations of reality and discuss the significance of the observer in quantum theory. The conversation touches on the evolution of quantum mechanics and its implications for consciousness. They also explore how quantum mechanics might influence biological processes, revealing a deeper connection between physics and the fabric of existence.

02:05:13

Episode guests

Manolis Kellis

Jacob Barandes

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Quantum physics misconceptions stem from oversimplified interpretations, necessitating a deeper understanding to accurately grasp complex phenomena.

The intersection of physics and philosophy enhances our understanding of consciousness, encouraging critical thoughts about scientific implications.

Reviving dialogue between philosophy and science in physics could lead to fresh insights on unresolved quantum mechanics questions and consciousness.

Exploring weak measurements raises philosophical questions about the implications of observing quantum systems and whether data collected alters their state.

Deep dives

Quantum Physics and Misconceptions

Quantum physics is often misunderstood, with common claims about particles existing in multiple places simultaneously being oversimplified or misrepresented. The conversation challenges these notions by emphasizing that the nature of particles cannot be easily classified under such simplistic statements. Instead, the complexities of quantum mechanics require a deeper understanding beyond traditional interpretations. By grounding discussions in real scientific principles, we can navigate the various misconceptions surrounding quantum phenomena.

Intro

2min

Exploring Consciousness and Quantum Physics

18min

Exploring Consciousness and Reality

12min

Exploring the Nature of Quantum Reality and Mathematical Constructs

5min

Exploring Reality: Physics and Mathematics

9min

The Evolution of Quantum Mechanics

27min

Exploring the Intersection of Quantum Mechanics and Biology

24min

Revisiting Quantum Mechanics: The Role of Non-Markovianity and Indivisible Processes

4min

Weak Measurements and the Nature of Consciousness

14min

10.

Engaging with Theories of Everything: Community and Support

3min

As a listener of TOE you can get a special 20% off discount to The Economist and all it has to offer! Visit https://www.economist.com/toe

In this episode, Jacob Barandes, a theoretical physicist and philosopher from Harvard, and computational biologist Manolis Kellis from MIT, explore the connections between quantum physics, biology, and consciousness. Enjoy.

Shout out to the authors of the following. Check out their books:

- "The Mending of Broken Bones: A Modern Guide to Classical Algebra" by Paul Lockhart https://amzn.to/3EmfDP9

- "Dreaming Reality: How Neuroscience and Mysticism Can Unlock the Secrets of Consciousness" by Vladimir Miskovic and Steven Jay Lynn https://amzn.to/42y1KYi

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Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

6:23 Metaphysics and Physics: Defining the Boundaries

8:53 Does Existence Matter?

15:35 Quantum Physics: The Nature of Reality

21:35 Understanding Life Through Physics

27:56 The Observer Effect in Quantum Theory

36:02 Gauge Potentials and Their Reality

46:11 The Birth of Quantum Mechanics

54:42 Interpreting Quantum Superposition and Action at a Distance

1:01:20 Decoherence Explained

1:02:18 The Observer's Role

1:03:43 Size and Decoherence

1:04:35 Quantum Computing and Investments

1:07:33 Practical Applications of Quantum Theory

1:10:14 Quantum Computers: What Are They Good For?

1:11:24 The Markov Process Debate

1:15:18 Causal Modeling in Medicine

1:16:56 Quantum Effects in Biology

1:21:15 Consciousness and Quantum Mechanics

1:27:03 Non-locality and Quantum Theory

1:31:46 The Historical Shift in Physics

1:35:15 Beables and Their Nature

1:47:17 The Hard Problem of Consciousness

1:51:41 The P-Zombie Concept

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#science #philosophy #theoreticalphysics #physics #debate #lecture

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