The discussion revolves around an interview with Prof. Gerard 't Hooft, focusing on his views regarding quantum mechanics and the concept of superdeterminism. Participants explore the implications of his statements and the broader context of scientific discourse, including the challenges of reaching a fundamental theory in physics.
Participants express a mix of agreement on the value of unconventional thinking in science while also highlighting differing opinions on the implications of 't Hooft's views and the concept of superdeterminism. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader impact of these ideas on the field of physics.
Some assumptions about the nature of scientific discourse and the role of established scientists in challenging conventional wisdom are present but not fully articulated. The discussion also reflects varying perspectives on the relationship between scientific rigor and creative exploration.
In the pantheon of modern physics, few figures can match the quiet authority of Gerard ’t Hooft. The Dutch theoretical physicist, now a professor emeritus at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, has spent much of the past half-century reshaping our understanding of the fundamental forces that knit together reality. But ’t Hooft’s unassuming, soft-spoken manner belies his towering scientific stature, which is better revealed by the mathematical rigor and deep physical insights that define his work—and by the prodigious numbers of prestigious prizes he has accrued, which include a Nobel Prize, a Wolf Prize, a Franklin Medal, and many more.
Unfortunately, Einstein unified field theory did not pay either. Same with Heisenberg, Dirac and others.jedishrfu said:Well, when you get to his level of eminence, you can say what you want. Even Einstein was critical of some things.
Yeah, at least 't Hooft did not go for pseudoscience and spiritual stuff as some other Nobel laureates.jedishrfu said:It's true that much of physics is filling the details of things we don't understand but has yet to reach the fundamental theory of everything. Sometimes, people need to take more risks, expand their mathematical knowledge and think outside the box as younger researchers do until they're told not to.
Here is a list: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nobel_diseasemarcusl said:Who besides Josephson?