Lee Smolin: Why Time Is Real and Quantum Mechanics Needs Rewriting

Lee Smolin joins Theories of Everything to explore his ideas on the dynamic nature of physical laws, the role of time, and connections between string theory, loop quantum gravity, and other fields. The conversation spans topics from doubly special relativity to the Bomes interpretation of quantum mechanics and even touches on biology and philosophy.

0:00 Intro
4:13 Doubly Special Relativity and Violation of Lorentz Invariance
9:15 The Concept of Thick Time
19:11 Duality Between String Theory and Loop Quantum Gravity
23:50 Condensed Matter Theory
28:35 Approximating by a Continuum and Discrete Sets
34:11 Misapprehensions about Loop Quantum Gravity
38:43 Defining Complexity and the View of the Universe by One Observer
43:52 Causal Energetic: The Relationship Between Varieties and Kinetic Energy
48:38 Varying Parameters in the Universe
53:35 The Bomes Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics
58:30 Causality and Relativity
1:03:15 Different Styles in Mathematics and Chess
1:07:55 The Fundamental Questions in Biology
1:12:49 Marrying Outside Your Field
1:18:04 Discussion on Authors and Novels
1:23:35 Conversations with Fire Robin
1:28:39 Being Sincere and Ambitious
1:33:39 A Visit from BJ
1:38:34 Outro

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Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal features long-form, technically detailed interviews with leading researchers in physics, mathematics, consciousness, and philosophy, exploring topics at the level of active research. For academics, graduate students, and anyone seeking depth beyond popular science.

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