'condensed matter nuclear science"

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a recent session on "condensed matter nuclear science" and its perceived value, particularly in relation to presentations on cold fusion. Participants reflect on their experiences and opinions regarding the quality and credibility of the talks presented at the session.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant found the session disappointing, criticizing the presentations by Steve Koonin and Patricia Dehmer for being unengaging and filled with complex charts.
  • Another participant mentioned a rumor about the APS setting aside sessions for "crackpot talks," questioning its accuracy.
  • A participant expressed nostalgia for past March Meetings, suggesting that the current session on cold fusion caters to fringe science interests.
  • There is a suggestion that the cold fusion session is a response to demands from proponents of fringe science, though this is met with skepticism.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the value of the cold fusion session, with some finding it lacking in credibility and others questioning the rationale behind its existence. No consensus is reached regarding the APS's handling of such topics.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the nature of the talks and the audience's perception of cold fusion without providing specific evidence or examples to support their claims. The discussion reflects a mix of personal opinions and anecdotal experiences.

rachmaninoff
[SOLVED] 'condensed matter nuclear science"

Anyone else visit session T50 this evening? I thought it was a bit of a dud. Steve Koonin (Caltech provost & representative of BP petroluem) gave the economists' version of the future of energy, complete with unreadable Excel charts and all. Patricia Dehmer (DOE) was far more boring, I left after about four minutes of "...and the co-chairs of the Basic Energy Research Perspectives Committee were..." :frown: I thought the high point of the session was when the very brusque person derailed Koonin's question session to invite him to "Condensed matter nuclear science" session (his words) to hear about their fascinating latest developments! (session W41). Apparently the name "cold fusion" has gone through as many evolutionary twists as "creation science". :rolleyes:

Anyone needing comic relief tomorrow, look at session W41 "cold fusion"!

:rolleyes:
 
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That reminds me, a grad student recently told me that the APS sets aside sessions for crackpot talks, so that everyone else knows how to stay clear of them - is this accurate?
 
I so badly miss the March Meetings... there was never a dull moment.

And no, the APS don't do stuff like that. But the "cold fusion" session due to demands from fringe science to have their fleeting day in the sun.

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
And no, the APS don't do stuff like that. But the "cold fusion" session due to demands from fringe science to have their fleeting day in the sun.
A day they get? :rolleyes: