Quantum mechanics Quote by Henning Genz
““This question about the reason we do not observe any quantum mechanical uncertainty in the appearance of flies or stars was never tackled by the inventors of quantum mechanics. Given that we are convinced that the basic laws of quantum mechanics are at the bottom of all mechanical laws, and that the beginning of our world can be understood exclusively in quantum mechanical terms, we have to ask ourselves: Why are there any observable systems at all on the classical side of the demarcation line between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics? Why are there these stumbling blocks, these flies, these stars? The demarcation line proper, between quantum physics and classical physics, was clearly stated by the fathers of quantum mechanics: Classical laws govern large and heavy classical systems. But they failed to tell us how and why the world became that way.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Theoretical Physics Lecture, 2015
The quote questions why macroscopic objects appear classical despite underlying quantum rules, highlighting an unresolved gap in quantum theory.
In simple terms: Why do big things act normal if everything is quantum?
Explore the quantum‑classical boundary.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- lab experiments
- astronomical observations
- technology design
- education curricula
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does decoherence bridge quantum and classical worlds?
- Can we ever fully observe quantum effects in large systems?
The explanation may require new physics beyond current models.