The revolutionary physical theories of the early 20th century
(relativity and quantum mechanics) have vastly increased our
understanding of the natural world, but also created deep puzzles.
For example, quantum mechanics allows "Schrodinger's cat" states, in
which a physical system is in, eg., several different positions at
once. Such "superpositions" have now been realized in the laboratory
with macroscopic devices. Experiments like these suggest remarkable
new technologies, like quantum computation, working according to
rules which defy common sense- and which will transform the way our
society operates. They also raise fundamental questions about the
nature of the physical world, calling into question the very
language we use to describe it and ourselves.
These PITP public lectures are intended for a broad audience, from
inside and outside the university. They provide a forum for
outstanding researchers from around the world, as well as from UBC,
to discuss the work in this area and to present it in a way
accessible to non-specialists, including the general public. While
the seminars concentrate on questions associated in some way with
quantum phenomena, ideas on various foundational problems in physics
and the philosophy of science are also be covered. Past lecturers
include physicists, philosophers, and historians, and in future we
envisage other lecturers from outside science. Informal discussion
between the speaker and the audience is encouraged, and the
discussion period usually goes on for at least 45 mins after the
lecture.
The seminars will usually take place on the 2nd Wednesday of each
month, in the evening. For news about upcoming lectures, go to
upcoming lectures. If you wish to be put on
the electronic
mailing list for this series, and for other PITP public
announcements, send a message to our
program assistant.
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