New Carlo Rovelli book challenges science understanding of reality and universe
a day ago
- Carlo Rovelli's new book rejects the idea of an ultimate reality, arguing against the traditional 'God's-eye view' in physics.
- Modern physics, such as relativity and quantum mechanics, has shown that measurements of space, time, and properties are relative and depend on observation, undermining absolute perspectives.
- Rovelli supports the relational interpretation of quantum mechanics, where all properties exist only in relation to others, and there is no absolute viewpoint.
- He argues that physics cannot exhaust all knowledge about the world, and that relationship is central, not ultimate truth.
- Rovelli draws on classical Asian philosophies like Nagarjuna and Zhuangzi to support his perspective, treating them as equals to Western thinkers.
- Despite rejecting absolute certainty, Rovelli defends science as a creative endeavor offering beautiful and useful knowledge, encouraging humility and new wisdom.
- The book may be criticized for downplaying the role of experience or dismissing thinkers like Bergson, but it opens avenues for future debate.