The concept of a "conscious" observer being needed was dropped about 100 years ago.ChrisisC said:On a episode of "PBS Spacetime" (fantastic youtube series, go check it out), the host mentioned that Bohr believed that reality doesn't exist until a conscious observer actually measures the quantum system. Einstein believed that the universe still runs independently outside of a conscious observers mind. What is the actual science behind both of these accusations if there is any? I hope this isn't too philosophical for the forum. Thanks!
phinds said:The concept of a "conscious" observer being needed was dropped about 100 years ago.
A conscious observer is NEVER required. "Observation" does not mean "by a conscious observer" it just means detection of some characteristic.ChrisisC said:I thought a quantum system chose which quantum state it was in once observed? Like in the quantum eraser experiment? can you clarify how a conscious observer is not needed in a case like that?
phinds said:A conscious observer is NEVER required. "Observation" does not mean "by a conscious observer" it just means detection of some characteristic.
ChrisisC said:What is the actual science behind both of these accusations if there is any?
The man who first transformed it into a proper science was John Bell:ChrisisC said:On a episode of "PBS Spacetime" (fantastic youtube series, go check it out), the host mentioned that Bohr believed that reality doesn't exist until a quantum system is observed. Einstein believed that the universe still runs independently outside of a conscious observers mind. What is the actual science behind both of these accusations if there is any? I hope this isn't too philosophical for the forum. Thanks!
The Einstein vs. Bohr debate refers to the disagreement between Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr about the interpretation of quantum mechanics, specifically the concept of wave-particle duality.
Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr were two of the most influential physicists of the 20th century. Einstein is known for his theory of relativity and his contributions to the development of quantum mechanics, while Bohr is known for his work on atomic structure and his contributions to quantum theory.
Their main disagreement centered around the nature of reality and whether it could be described by a deterministic or probabilistic theory. Einstein believed in a deterministic universe, where everything happened according to predictable laws, while Bohr argued for a probabilistic view, where events could only be described by the likelihood of their occurrence.
No, Einstein and Bohr never fully reconciled their differences. However, they did continue to have respectful discussions and debates throughout their careers, and their ideas have both contributed to our understanding of quantum mechanics and the nature of reality.
The Einstein vs. Bohr debate had a significant impact on the field of physics, as it led to further exploration and development of quantum mechanics. It also sparked debates and discussions among other scientists and philosophers, and continues to be a topic of interest and controversy in the scientific community.