General relativity Quote by Lee Smolin
““Besides the argument based on the unity of nature, there are problems specific to each theory that call for unification with the other. Each has a problem of infinities. In nature, we have yet to encounter anything measurable that has an infinite value. But in both quantum theory and general relativity, we encounter predictions of physically sensible quantities becoming infinite. This is likely the way that nature punishes impudent theorists who dare to break her unity.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: The Quest for Unification, 2018
Both quantum theory and general relativity predict infinities, suggesting a deeper need for unification.
In simple terms: Infinities signal theory limits.
Key Takeaway
Seek unified theory to resolve infinities.
Themes
physics
theory
unification
Mood
analytical
speculative
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research
- academic discussion
- theoretical modeling
- philosophical inquiry
Key Concepts
quantum mechanics
general relativity
infinities
Questions to Reflect On
- What experimental evidence could guide unification?
- How do infinities affect practical predictions?
A Different Perspective
Unification may be unattainable with current methods.
![“Einstein, my upset stomach hates your theory [of General Relativity]—it almost hates you yourself! How am I to' provide for my students? What am I to answer to the philosophers?!!” quote by Paul Ehrenfest](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8bf/paul-ehrenfest-52330_answers_einstein-my-upset-stomach-hates-your-the_467759.jpg)
