Did Homer Simpson Accurately Calculate the Mass of the Higgs Boson?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a 1998 episode of The Simpsons where Homer Simpson is depicted calculating the mass of the Higgs boson, as noted by Simon Singh. The writers, trained in mathematics, presented a supposedly accurate calculation, but Lubos Motl's analysis reveals that Homer’s calculation was inaccurate. This highlights the intersection of popular culture and scientific concepts, showcasing how entertainment can engage with complex topics like particle physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Higgs boson and its significance in particle physics.
  • Familiarity with mathematical calculations related to mass and energy.
  • Knowledge of popular science communication and its impact on public perception.
  • Awareness of the role of media in disseminating scientific concepts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Higgs boson and its role in the Standard Model of particle physics.
  • Explore Simon Singh's contributions to science communication and popular science literature.
  • Investigate Lubos Motl's blog for further analysis on scientific accuracy in media.
  • Examine the portrayal of scientific concepts in television and its effects on audience understanding.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physicists, science communicators, educators, and anyone interested in the relationship between popular culture and scientific accuracy.

jim mcnamara
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http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/...oson_n_6793204.html?utm_hp_ref=media&ir=Media

According to Simon Singh, in a 1998 episode the writers of the Simpsons had Homer in front of blackboard with a supposedly accurate calculation of the mass of the Higgs boson. Hmm. Apparently the people who write the Simpsons were trained in mathematics, now making a much better living doing something else.

Not sure what the 'else' is. I'd bet it pays better than most post-docs.
 
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jim mcnamara said:
supposedly accurate calculation of the mass of the Higgs boson
C'mon PF let's confirm this! :)
 
Same episode:

electric-hammer.jpg
 
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jim mcnamara said:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/...oson_n_6793204.html?utm_hp_ref=media&ir=Media

According to Simon Singh, in a 1998 episode the writers of the Simpsons had Homer in front of blackboard with a supposedly accurate calculation of the mass of the Higgs boson. Hmm. Apparently the people who write the Simpsons were trained in mathematics, now making a much better living doing something else.

Not sure what the 'else' is. I'd bet it pays better than most post-docs.
Lubos Motl has a good blog entry on this: http://motls.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/did-homer-simpson-calculate-correct.html . Unfortunately Homer was off target. Interesting Motl's suggestion that Singh himself is behind the equations written by Homer (if really so I would have expected more from him :) ).