Re: Quick! Tell me everything you know about quantum physic
1) Quantum physics is entirely for math geeks and the like; the metaphors used to try to convey the strangeness of n-dimensional space VS our quaint daily experience of 3-D 'space' - all are fanciful *musings ... if calculus, tensors are Greek to a one.
* laughably faux 'The Simpsons meet Bambi', on the PBS String Theory dog & pony show I saw a couple years back. But then.. who on that 'panel' was ready to discuss the Bhagavad Gita, either [rhetorical question.]
2) String Theory is more metaphysics than physics; shall remain so for as long as its postulates may not be tested by any (yet conceived) experiment: no experiment, no 'science', y'see?
3) Since most Westerners are iggerant of even elementary means of thinking metaphysically - I think it likely that many String-ers have yet to realize just what arena they are jousting within; would likely be embarrassed to find out, given the local mores and religio-memes (if afflicted with conventional mindsets) ... just a guess, mind you.
4) Along the trail from Newton to Einsteinian concepts - [biased opinion] I think particle physics / "accelerator physics" is the most fun, since F=MA and the electrical disciplines' equivalents for that: Rulez, re the way the machines work.
Then, as particles accelerate nearer to C (lightspeed, er Warp 1?) - concepts like the 'beta' of a particle emerge next (a merely algebraic expression relating to speeds near this limit.) No calculus needed - though it's certainly helpful for the bigger picture.
At least, at this level - - - the physics is comprehensible with no obscure math, little abstraction of the sort needed: merely to begin grokking WTF the String Brigade are yammering about.
In any event, and however you proceed: this-all is a bloody good workout for the little grey cells - best that these wear out rather than rust out, no?
;^>
Bon appetit
