The most interesting problem in physics? | Hacker News Reader

The most interesting problem in physics?

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8 pointsjgamman9 comments

The first thing that comes to mind is ripples in the fabric of space-time causing unexpected increases in velocity. The ripples would be something like gravity causing space to fold on itself in very tiny amounts causing a small "jump" in velocity for an object passing through such a folded ripple. Velocity would increase without an increase in acceleration.

Yes I know, I watch too much Star Trek sometimes...

Not to be an asshole to all the nice physics guys, but the problem of cognition and reasoning is a hell of a lot more interesting.

The richness of intellectual pursuit is specific to our own individual experiences.

Somebody else might say that the problem of human rights is more interesting/important.

Given enough time, physicists will invade the cogsci field too and take over research into the cognition problem.

Apologies, but this is the same as saying computer engineering will invade and take over web development. The two are related in that the underpinnings of web development rely on the principles of computer engineering, but the usefulness of one application does not equate to encompassing the possibilities of the other.

While it is true that the mechanisms governing the interactions of neurons and the chemicals related to this interaction ultimately boil down to what we call "physics", it is useful to be able to think at higher levels of abstraction.

Such intellectual groupings/classifications/segments are important to advancing knowledge. I am open to considering that currently the "mental toolation" of thinking at abstracted levels is reflective of the current level of human intellectual capacity. Furthermore perhaps a blending of everything into one grand unified SCIENCE is maybe one day possible - but this does not equate to desirable; this is something for future generations to determine. I believe/maintain there is a great deal of richness to be gained by having such abstracted levels at which we can think/operate.

Amongst others. However, solve this problem and you may have made the first major breakthrough in physics for the 21st Century.

Ah, there are Germans working on it. Will be solved soon. Obviously.

if today had been before 1939, yes

Or say - before 1914 (chemical weapons and the like).

My comment was meant more innocently - for when in the space race captured (or persuaded) Germans worked on the Sovjet and the American side.

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