The Many Hidden Worlds of Quantum Mechanics

By: Sean Carroll, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Sean Carroll

In a field known for startling ideas, the Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) of quantum mechanics may take the prize. It holds that parallel to our own world are a large number of other universes, almost identical to ours but with small variations. Copies of each of us inhabit a myriad of these worlds. But they are not us exactly; they share our past history, but they are different people who have unique futures. Although these realms are invisible and can’t communicate with each other, prominent physicists are convinced they must exist.

The Many Hidden Worlds of Quantum Mechanics is about why we should take the Many-Worlds Interpretation seriously, as arguably the best explanation of quantum mechanics, the science of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic scales. In 24 fascinating lectures, Professor Sean Carroll of Johns Hopkins University guides listeners through the history, reasoning, and implications of this bold idea. He also covers alternate theories to Many-Worlds and unresolved questions in fundamental physics, making the course a thorough introduction to the current state of this exciting field.

Starting with classical physics, Professor Carroll explains how quantum theory overturned traditional ideas about matter and energy in the early 20th century. A consensus soon formed around a framework called the Copenhagen Interpretation, which rejected speculation about what was “really happening.” The Many-Worlds Interpretation in the 1950s was a reaction against this view, proposing that we take the basic equation of quantum mechanics seriously and go where it leads. It turns out it leads to Many-Worlds.

The course also covers quantum computing, quantum gravity, the resolution of quantum paradoxes, and speculation about whether human consciousness plays a central role in quantum experiments (Many-Worlds argues it doesn’t). Even die-hard skeptics of Many-Worlds will learn much from these lectures and will have their beliefs tested by a theory that is both mind-boggling and mathematically elegant.

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Not so “deeply hidden” (again)

Carrol’s “Something Deeply Hidden” inspired a hope that this book would offer vistas beyond another layman’s overview. It’s a little frustrating to stop so far short of even my humble 4-year (Ok, Berkeley) physics training in mathematical horsepower.
Another tantalizing near miss was his use of the singular in his concluding sentence, which should have been, “To my mind, the futures are very exciting indeed.”

Sean Carroll always has such amazing content

Worth listening to this book as well as his Mindscape podcast. He creates the best popular science content I’ve ever come across.

Excellent book

The professor does a great job explaining complex scientific topics. Though I didn’t understand all the math, the course did do a great job helping me understand Quantum mechanics

Amazing Journey through Modern Quantum Physics

Great dissertations on the implications on how to think about quantum physics, good complimentary explanations and jones, great companion PDFs.

Quantum Mechanics is a puzzle

I enjoyed this book.I learned a lot about quantum mechanics.But I also am still befuddled By some of The aspects.Quantum Mechanics in the 21st century will accelerate our technological Development development.Quantum quantum computers And super conducting Particle particles Change change Our lives.

A new way of imagining

Every theory discussed presents a new way of imagining the multiverse. I enjoyed learning about the origins of quantum theory and its trajectory for future discoveries. The idea of branching many worlds is fascinating. The chapter about free will and determinism provides interesting perspectives. Humanity seems quite small in the grand scheme of things. Science is exciting, especially now!

Complex but not obscure

The Professor made a very complex subject almost comprehensible by a naive layman. He even approached some novel concepts like Free Will in the realm of Quantum Mechanics. It is fascinating how much we know, and don't know, about our World. I really enjoyed the Course and how it has opened my imagination.

Outstanding

Easy to follow and so thought provoking! If you want to understand far Quantum mechanics has come, look no further.

I’m not a Physicist

I knew next to nothing about Quantum Mechanics or Physics in general before starting this course. I’m happy to say that I was able to keep up with the lectures (for the most part). I found the content fascinating, and I learned a lot. The Professor was engaging and easy to listen to.

The lecture / book we all need

This should be taught in not just undergrad but in high school curriculum. By far the most important subject in all science