How to debunk a quantum mystic?

  • Thread starter Thread starter QuantumKitty
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Quantum
Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the challenge of addressing a colleague's interpretation of quantum mechanics (QM), particularly regarding concepts like entanglement and the observer's role. The colleague views entanglement as a form of universal connection, while others argue that entanglement is a complex phenomenon that doesn't support mystical interpretations. Participants emphasize that understanding QM does not necessarily change deeply held beliefs, as these beliefs often predate any scientific knowledge. The conversation highlights the difficulty of debunking interpretations rooted in personal beliefs rather than scientific understanding. Ultimately, the consensus suggests that while educating about QM is valuable, it may not alter the colleague's perspective on interconnectedness.
  • #31
DaveC426913 said:
I have not seen it because it is mumbo-jumbo. Though, it occurs to me that perhaps I should see it so I can debunk it to the friends & family that recommended it...

Oh man, I tried to watch that and it's not worth it. You'll be so angry and hopless by the end of it, you won't see the POINT in debunking anything. It's Kryptonite for rational people, and Catnip for idiots. It felt a bit like someone was trying to steam-press every ounce of genuine physics out of my head and replace it with... OATMEAL! TA-ta-TUM! *jazz hands*
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
I agree with Fredrik. The best thing is to focus on those paranormal things that the person thinks are supported by QM. I once argued with a believer in astrology and just went along with his reasoning. I only asked questions like "can you determine place and time of birth from certain events in a person's life?" Or how would astrology work for a person born om Mars, in deep space etc. etc.?
 
  • #33
QuantumKitty said:
It needed to be said.

By the way, have any of you guys ever seen the What the Bleep Do We Know documentary? (and I use the word documentary very loosely) It's full of pseudo-science, mumbo-jumbo crap. It's where he got a lot of fuel for his arguments.

I haven't watched it; reading the poor reviews of the movie were enough to turn me off and make me shake my head in disgust. :P

No need to watch it to debunk it, I would just read and/or send them a link of one of the bad reviews, since someone has done the debunking already.

here's one here: http://skeptico.blogs.com/skeptico/2005/04/what_the_bleep_.html

and another: http://www.abc.net.au/science/features/bleep/
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
5K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 69 ·
3
Replies
69
Views
7K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
57
Views
7K