Single Idea 14936

[catalogued under 1. Philosophy / G. Scientific Philosophy / 3. Scientism]

Full Idea

We cannot say what the metaphysical implications of quantum gravity are, but they range from eleven dimensions to two, from continuous fundamental structure to a discrete one, and from universal symmetries to no symmetries.

Gist of Idea

A metaphysics based on quantum gravity could result in almost anything

Source

J Ladyman / D Ross (Every Thing Must Go [2007], 3.7.2)

Book Reference

Ladyman,J/Ross,D: 'Every Thing Must Go' [OUP 2007], p.171


A Reaction

I offer this observation as a good reason for doubting whether the project of building our metaphysics directly onto our fundamental physics has much prospect of success. Quantum gravity is the unified theory they are all hoping for.