100 Years of Quantum Physics: Insights into Reality and Human Perception

Rapid Summary

• UNESCO declared 2023 as the International Year of quantum Science and Technology, marking 100 years since quantum mechanics was first proposed.
• Quantum physics continues to captivate public inventiveness despite its notorious complexity and limited connection to everyday experiences.
• Origins:

– The term “quanta” was introduced in 1905 by Albert Einstein to describe light energy in discrete packets (photons).- Early debates revolved around the wave-particle duality of light and its probabilistic nature, which challenged deterministic Newtonian mechanics.
– Scientists like Einstein were uneasy with quantum theory’s principles; he famously stated, “God does not play dice.”

• Popularity growth:

– between the 1960s and ’80s, quantum physics gained prominence due to government-backed scientific advancements during U.S.-Soviet competition.
– Technologies like lasers, semiconductors, and atomic clocks emerged but were no longer perceived as “quantum” over time due to widespread integration into daily life.

• By the late 20th century:

– Public focus shifted to theoretical aspects of quantum mechanics that challenge perceptions of reality (e.g., multiverse theories).
– Scientific American’s archives highlight that quantum theory has remained popular because it represents the unknown while defying intuitive understanding.

!Horgan.jpg?m=1756422487.576&w=900″>Quantum ideology article image

Indian Opinion Analysis

UNESCO’s recognition of a century of quantum science is timely given its critical importance in modern technology. For India-already making strategic investments in developing indigenous capabilities under National mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications-the fascination with foundational science should transform into applied success. Global competitiveness demands mastering both theoretical exploration and practical deployment in defense systems, secure communications via quantum cryptography, advanced computing capacities (quantum computers), or innovations for sectors like healthcare.

Celebrating global milestones also serves as a reminder for countries like India: bridging theoretical breakthroughs with local applications builds resilience against dependency on external technologies. India’s ongoing efforts must aim at fostering curiosity-driven basic research that primes societal well-being alongside innovation-driven ecosystems aligned with future global priorities.

Read More