from Frank Wilczek's Nobel (physics) lecture, 2004 ("Asymptotic Freedom")

[fflo]

In theoretical physics, paradoxes are good. That's paradoxical, since a paradox appears to be a contradiction, and contradictions imply serious error. But Nature cannot realize contradictions. When our physical theories lead to paradox we must find a way out. Paradoxes focus our attention, and we think harder.

Comments

Re: begging to differ

[shmizla.livejournal.com]

most literally/directly, i mean that the transparency of 'science' makes science and its findings accessible. in itself, not a bad thing, unless pharmaceutical companies and crazed politicians get a hold of them, in which case (as we're experiencing now) we can all know how it works, but they'll be the ones deciding on the application.

they'll be selling the 'knowledge' and they'll sell it to whoever will pay. if you don't want to pay, you can always 'steal' it. either way, it's the 'knowledge' that can't be hidden.

the sad twist is that these people who enjoy the asymptotic freedom are generally funded by the zealots, who suck the juice of their joy, but there would be no conditions for asymptotic freedom without the leeches. so the point is, i think, to strike some balance about how much joy you let on to those who would sell it.

won't even get into identity politics -- makes me gag.