Approximation Quote by Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar
“Macroscopic objects, as we see them all around us, are governed by a variety of forces, derived from a variety of approximations to a variety of physical theories. In contrast, the only elements in the construction of black holes are our basic concepts of space and time. They are, thus, almost by definition, the most perfect macroscopic objects there are in the universe.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Black Holes and Fundamental Physics, 1970
Black holes are the simplest macroscopic objects, defined only by space‑time concepts, unlike everyday objects governed by many forces.
In simple terms: Black holes are pure space‑time.
Study fundamental physics.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- educational outreach
- science communication
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do black holes illustrate fundamental physics?
- What does their simplicity teach us about nature?
Real objects are complex, limiting direct analogy.