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Dr Faustus of Modern Physics - Department of Speech, Music and ...

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211<br />

• If we assume Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle for elementary particles,<br />

then we can theoretically explain an observed interaction between<br />

observer <strong>and</strong> observed particle. Hence elementary particles obey<br />

Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle.<br />

• If we assume that a proton consists <strong>of</strong> three quarks, then we can theoretically<br />

derive a formula for the observed mass <strong>of</strong> a proton. Hence a<br />

proton consists <strong>of</strong> three quarks.<br />

• If we assume that space-time observations <strong>of</strong> different observers are connected<br />

by the Lorentz transformation <strong>of</strong> special relativity, then we can<br />

theoretically explain the observation that the speed <strong>of</strong> light is the same<br />

for all observers. Hence space-time observations <strong>of</strong> different observers<br />

are connected by the Lorentz transformation.<br />

• If we assume that space-time is curved, then we can theoretically explain<br />

observed gravitation. Hence space-time is curved. If we assume<br />

there was a Big Bang, then we can theoretically explain the observed<br />

expansion <strong>of</strong> the Universe. Hence there was a Big Bang.<br />

• If we assume there is a black hole at the center <strong>of</strong> a galaxy, then we<br />

can theoretically explain the observed shape <strong>of</strong> a galaxy. Hence there<br />

is a black hole in the center <strong>of</strong> a galaxy.<br />

• If string theory would predict an observable phenomenon, it would<br />

follow that matter consists <strong>of</strong> tiny vibrating strings.<br />

• If we assume that the Earth rests on four invisible tortoises, then we<br />

can theoretically explain why the Earth does not fall down. Hence the<br />

Earth rests on four invisible tortoises.<br />

• If we assume that CO2 is a critical greenhouse gas, then we can theoretically<br />

explain observed global warming. Hence CO2 is a critical<br />

greenhouse gas.<br />

Do you see the possibly incorrect logic in these statements? If so, do you<br />

see the potential danger <strong>of</strong> such possibly incorrect logic? Do you think such<br />

possibly incorrect logic represents science or pseudo-science?<br />

Notice that in all the above cases, the fact that a certain phenomenon is<br />

observed, which can be theoretically explained from a certain assumption, is

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