Quantum Physics Fallacy
The fallacy of invoking quantum mechanics to support a claim that has no legitimate connection to quantum physics, exploiting the mysterious and complex reputation of the field to lend false credibility.
THE IDEA
Quantum Physics Fallacy
Description: Using quantum physics in an attempt to support your claim, when in no way is your claim related to quantum physics. Perhaps the greatest mind in quantum physics, Richard Feynman, once said, “I think I can safely say that nobody understands quantum mechanics.” And he may be right. People recognize that this is perhaps the most bizarre, paradoxical, and incomprehensible area of study, that is also a respectable science. So, if you can manage to connect the truth of your argument to quantum physics, it would be unlikely that there would be many people who know enough about quantum physics to assert that your connection is invalid, thus your argument gains credibility out of ignorance. The mysterious nature of quantum physics is a breeding ground for superstition, religious claims, “proof” of God, universal consciousness, and many other unfalsifiable claims.
Logical Form:
Example #1: Person 1 makes a claim about quantum physics. Person 2: But how does that relate? Person 1: It's quantum physics, it's too complicated for you to understand.
Example #2: Person 1: Quantum entanglement shows that information can travel faster than light, so telepathy is possible. Person 2: But that's not how quantum entanglement works. Person 1: You don't understand quantum mechanics; it's all about probabilities and observer effects.
Exception: Making a scientific claim about quantum physics, using the scientific method, is not fallacious.
Tip: Pick up an introductory book to quantum physics, it is not only a fascinating subject, but you will be well prepared to ask the right questions and expose this fallacy when used.
When to use it
A new age book claims that quantum entanglement explains telepathy.
A motivational speaker says that quantum physics proves we can manifest reality through thoughts.
A politician argues that quantum uncertainty undermines the reliability of climate change models.
A product advertisement claims that a bracelet uses quantum technology to improve health.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Example #1
Sam knows nothing about quantum physics, so really cannot respond, yet Depak did not establish an argument as to how it provides evidence, he just made the assertion.
Example #2
Sam knows nothing about quantum physics, so he cannot respond. Depak expanded on his assertion using gibberish that sounded scientific but was not. According to everything we know about quantum physics, information cannot travel faster than light – otherwise it could create a time travel paradox.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How would you verify whether a claim genuinely has a connection to quantum mechanics?
What are common red flags when someone invokes quantum physics to support a non-physical argument?
Why is the quote from Feynman often misused to shut down critical questioning?
Often confused with
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Logically Fallacious - The Ultimate Collection of Over 300 Logical Fallacies