If we look at the way the universe behaves, quantum mechanics gives us fundamental, unavoidable indeterminacy, so that alternative histories of the universe can be assigned probability.
Murray Gell-MannRead
Sometimes the probabilities are very close to certainties, but they're never really certainties
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that while some outcomes may seem almost guaranteed, there is always an element of uncertainty involved.
Murray Gell-Mann's quote reminds us that in the realm of probabilities, there are instances where certain outcomes appear almost inevitable; however, it is crucial to acknowledge that absolute certainties do not exist in reality. This highlights the importance of understanding that even in situations where we feel confident, the unpredictable nature of life and science means we must remain open to the possibility of unexpected results.
Themes
ProbabilityCertaintyUncertaintyScienceOutcomes
In practice
Example use cases
In a scientific conference discussing theories and predictions.
More from Murray Gell-Mann
All quotes βJust because things get a little dingy at the subatomic level doesn't mean all bets are off.
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If someone says that he can think or talk about quantum physics without becoming dizzy, that shows only that he has not understood anything whatever about it.
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What is especially striking and remarkable is that in fundamental physics a beautiful or elegant theory is more likely to be right than a theory that is inelegant.
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