Why bother with Astrophysics if we have String Theory?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relevance of astrophysics in light of the pursuit of a "theory of everything," particularly string theory and quantum gravity. Participants explore the implications of having a fundamental theory on the study of various fields such as astrophysics and condensed matter physics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the necessity of studying astrophysics if a comprehensive theory like string theory exists, suggesting that focus should shift to fundamental theories.
  • Another participant counters that there is currently no established "theory of everything" and that string theory has not been validated, emphasizing that fundamental theories are often impractical for calculations involving large objects.
  • A later reply reiterates the complexity of using fundamental theories in practical applications, suggesting that models for astrophysics and condensed matter will still be necessary.
  • One participant speculates that if a complex equation could describe cosmology, it might eliminate the need for astronomical observations, raising questions about the future of cosmological research.
  • Another participant argues that making predictions based on a non-existent theory is futile, suggesting that the community must wait for developments in fundamental theories.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the implications of a potential "theory of everything." While some believe it could diminish the need for astrophysics, others argue that practical applications and the current status of string theory necessitate continued study in various fields.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the uncertainty surrounding the validity of string theory and the complexity of applying fundamental theories to practical scenarios, indicating a reliance on models that may not yet be fully developed.

Gjmdp
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If there is a "theory of everything", a single equation that basically explains everything, why should be study Astrophysics, Condensed matter, or so?

I mean we should rather study String Theory, Quantum Gravity... So, am I wrong? Maybe I'm leaving some important details.
 
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There is no "theory of everything" at this time and string theory hasn't yet been shown to be correct. And even if there was a theory of everything, fundamental physical theories, while extremely important, are often impossible to use in calculations and models of large objects in their "raw" forms. The calculations are just too complex for us to compute. So we'd still have to make theories and models for astrophysics, condensed matter, and other areas that are less fundamental and more easily computable.
 
Drakkith said:
There is no "theory of everything" at this time and string theory hasn't yet been shown to be correct. And even if there was a theory of everything, fundamental physical theories, while extremely important, are often impossible to use in calculations and models of large objects in their "raw" forms. The calculations are just too complex for us to compute. So we'd still have to make theories and models for astrophysics, condensed matter, and other areas that are less fundamental and more easily computable.
Ok, maybe the equation is just too complex. But Cosmology may easily be computed by this equation (I mean, is the "very" general view of the universe=, so no longer we'll require Astronomical observation to make models that predict this things, and therefore, there won't be more research on Cosmology. Right?
 
Trying to make predictions about what a non-existent theory does is pointless. We'll have to wait and see if and when it happens.

Thread locked.
 

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