Is science slowing to a standstill ?

Thread starter nameta9
Start date Apr 12, 2005
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Science

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The discussion centers on the perceived stagnation of scientific progress over the past few decades, despite technological advancements like the internet and smartphones. Participants express skepticism about the transformative impact of modern science, arguing that while knowledge has expanded, practical applications and the manipulation of matter remain limited. There is a belief that economic, social, and political factors hinder scientific exploration and innovation, leading to a focus on incremental improvements rather than groundbreaking discoveries. The conversation raises questions about the fundamental capabilities of the human mind in understanding and manipulating complex systems, suggesting that there may be inherent limits to what can be achieved through science and technology. Some participants argue that while knowledge may continue to grow, the ability to apply that knowledge effectively may not keep pace, potentially leading to a future where scientific advancement slows significantly. The debate also touches on the role of technology versus science in manipulating matter, with some asserting that true progress may be constrained by deeper conceptual and logical limits rather than just physical ones.

Jul 27, 2005

#101

Locrian

nameta9 said:

Yes you are most probably right. What my impression and many others here is most likely a "perception" of science slowing in that there are little "spectacular" results.

There have been many spectacular results in the past two decades. I like http://www.ornl.gov/sci/htsc/documents/pdf/SuperconTimeline%202000.pdf myself, but I think cosmic acceleration might be regarded by many as even more important. There are certainly many others.

When someone makes a discovery that completely alters our understanding of the universe and changes nearly 80 years of scientific thinking, I call it spectacular. Under what definition of science wouldn't it be?

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