X-Message-Number: 19182 Date: Fri, 31 May 2002 09:47:00 -0400 From: Thomas Donaldson <> Subject: CryoNet #19171 - #19179 Since so many seem to be replying to the claim that progress in physics has/will soon stopped, I thought I would put out a short post on the cosmology articles in the 24 May 2002 issue of SCIENCE. Yes, cosmology. It turns out that we must think on that scale if we are to have any hope of finding a theory which includes both general relativity and quantum mechanics. The articles all explain their points with surprisingly little math. They're clearly written for intelligent laymen. For those thinking about progress in physics, I'll also say that these authors are all looking carefully for ways to examine the universe and find evidence for or against the various theories that have now been suggested. Those particularly interested in that issue should read the M Tegmark article "Measuring spacetime from the Big Bang to Black Holes". The article by L Randall discusses the current theories; it's name is "Extra Dimensions and Warped Geometries". A short review article for the intelligent noncosmologist reader together with an even shorter preface, "Spacetime, Warped Dimensions, and Hidden Dimensions" starts off the set of articles. Tegmark is particularly notable in that he gives a systematic discussion of the astronomical observations which will soon become possible and which will produce data to compare with the various theories, no doubt conflicting with some and confirming others. Could such work someday bear on our personal lives? A lot depends on the theories which finally prove themselves. Remember that we're dealing with quite fundamental physics, and devices based on that may someday prove very useful. After all, think of quantum physics, which looks like it may affect our computing and our communication. Best wishes and long long life for all, Thomas Donaldson Rate This Message: http://www.cryonet.org/cgi-bin/rate.cgi?msg=19182