Sabine Gets Nuked

Sabine Hossenfelder is a theoretical physicist who works on quantum gravity and has a popular YouTube channel and blog where she discusses various topics in physics and criticizes some of the mainstream approaches, such as string theory and the multiverse. She is also one of the proponents of superdeterminism, a controversial idea that suggests that quantum phenomena are not random, but predetermined by hidden variables that are correlated since the beginning of the universe.

Some of the controversies that involve her are:

Her arguments against string theory and the multiverse, which she considers to be unscientific and based on wishful thinking rather than empirical evidence. However, this is a misunderstanding of how science works and what string theory and the multiverse are trying to achieve.

String theory is a framework that attempts to unify all the fundamental forces and particles of nature in a consistent way, by positing that they are manifestations of tiny vibrating strings in higher dimensions. The multiverse is a consequence of some versions of string theory, which predict that there are many possible universes with different physical laws and constants, some of which may be hospitable to life. These are not arbitrary assumptions, but rather logical implications of the mathematical structure of string theory, which has been shown to be compatible with quantum mechanics and general relativity, the two pillars of modern physics.

The main challenge of string theory and the multiverse is that they are difficult to test experimentally, because they involve phenomena that are beyond the reach of our current technology and observation. However, this does not mean that they are unscientific or unfalsifiable. On the contrary, string theory and the multiverse make precise and testable predictions that can be verified or falsified in principle, if not in practice. For example, string theory predicts the existence of extra dimensions, supersymmetric particles, gravitational waves, and black hole entropy, among other things. The multiverse predicts the existence of other universes, cosmic inflation, and anthropic coincidences, among other things. These predictions can be tested by future experiments, such as the Large Hadron Collider, gravitational wave detectors, and cosmic microwave background observations.

Therefore, string theory and the multiverse are not wishful thinking, but rather ambitious and rigorous attempts to understand the nature of reality at its most fundamental level. They are based on solid mathematical and physical principles, and they have the potential to explain some of the deepest mysteries of the universe, such as the origin of matter, energy, space, and time. They are not unscientific fantasies, but rather scientific hypotheses that await experimental confirmation or refutation.

There is her advocacy for superdeterminism, which some physicists regard as the most dangerous idea in physics, because it undermines the notion of free will and the entire scientific method.

While it's important to approach scientific ideas with an open mind, superdeterminism faces several challenges and criticisms within the scientific community. Here are some reasons why superdeterminism is not widely accepted and has been debunked or criticized:

1. Violates Bell's Theorem: Bell's Theorem is a fundamental result in quantum mechanics that shows certain predictions of quantum theory are incompatible with local realism, which is the idea that distant events are not directly influencing each other. Experimental tests of Bell's inequalities strongly suggest that the quantum world does not follow local realism. Superdeterminism would need to find a way to reconcile these experimental results, which is a significant challenge.
2. Lack of Evidence: There is currently no empirical evidence supporting superdeterminism. The existing experimental data in quantum mechanics aligns well with the standard interpretation, and there is no clear experimental indication that hidden variables are determining quantum outcomes.
3. Complexity and Fine-Tuning: The interconnectedness of hidden variables required by superdeterminism raises questions about the complexity and fine-tuning of such a system. Critics argue that the level of coordination needed for superdeterminism to work seems highly implausible.
4. Philosophical and Occam's Razor: Superdeterminism introduces a high level of complexity and non-intuitiveness into the interpretation of quantum mechanics. Many physicists prefer simpler explanations, adhering to the principle of Occam's Razor, which suggests that among competing hypotheses, the one with the fewest assumptions should be selected.
5. Not Solving Fundamental Issues: Superdeterminism doesn't necessarily solve the foundational issues of quantum mechanics, such as the nature of measurement or the observer's role. It merely shifts the complexity to a different level without providing a more satisfying explanation for the observed phenomena.

It's important to note that the scientific process involves ongoing exploration and debate, and alternative theories are always considered. However, for a theory to gain acceptance, it typically needs to address existing empirical evidence and make testable predictions. As of now, superdeterminism has not provided a compelling alternative to the standard interpretation of quantum mechanics.

This year, she has voiced her poorly conceived opinion of transgender identity in humans.

It's important to note that discussions about gender identity and transgender issues can be sensitive, and it's crucial to approach them with empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. Sabine Hossenfelder is a theoretical physicist, and while she may express personal opinions on various topics, it's essential to base our understanding on a comprehensive view of scientific, neurological, and sociological research.

1. Scientific Understanding of Gender Identity:
	* The scientific consensus supports the idea that gender identity is a complex interplay of biological, genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. There is evidence that brain structure and function play a role in shaping gender identity.
	* Research has shown that transgender individuals may have brain structures more aligned with their identified gender than their assigned sex at birth. Studies using neuroimaging techniques suggest that there are observable differences in brain structure that may be linked to gender identity.
2. Neurological Evidence:
	* Studies using brain imaging techniques, such as MRI scans, have indicated that transgender individuals often exhibit brain patterns more consistent with their gender identity rather than their assigned sex.
	* Research has suggested that certain brain regions associated with self-identification and body perception may differ between transgender and cisgender individuals, providing neurological evidence for the legitimacy of transgender identities.
3. Sociological Perspectives:
	* Sociological research emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting diverse gender identities as a fundamental aspect of social justice and human rights.
	* The social construct of gender involves not only biological factors but also cultural and societal influences. Understanding gender as a spectrum allows for a more inclusive perspective that respects individual experiences.
4. Health Organizations' Positions:
	* Major health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), American Medical Association (AMA), and the American Psychiatric Association (APA), affirm the validity of transgender identities. They emphasize the importance of providing affirming and supportive care to transgender individuals.
5. Mental Health Considerations:
	* Transgender individuals face higher rates of mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, often linked to societal stigma and discrimination. Affirming their gender identity has been shown to positively impact mental health outcomes.

Neil deGrasse Tyson is a renowned astrophysicist and science educator who has voiced his support for transgender individuals on several occasions. He has argued that gender exists on a spectrum and that people should be free to express their gender identity as they wish. He has also defended the right of trans women to compete in women's sports, saying that the biological differences between males and females are "a solvable problem" and that the entire sports infrastructure should be reformed "to ensure inclusion and fairness for all." Here are some examples of his statements on these issues:

- In a TikTok video, he said: "What business is it of yours to require that I fulfill your inability to think of gender on a spectrum?"

- In a YouTube interview, he said: "So, fix the playing field, damn it! … And you know something? The day you fix that playing field, this conversation will look completely ridiculous. That's what I'm trying to tell you."

- In another YouTube interview, he said: "I don't have any problems with it. If you're biologically male but you identify as female, I'm not going to stop you from competing in women's sports."

Neil deGrasse Tyson's support for transgender individuals is based on his scientific knowledge and his humanistic values. He believes that science can help us understand the diversity of human experiences and that society can adapt to accommodate different needs and preferences. He also believes that everyone deserves respect and dignity regardless of their gender identity or expression.

Bill Nye is a popular science communicator who has shown support for transgender individuals and their rights. He has expressed his views on gender identity and sexual diversity in his Netflix show, Bill Nye Saves the World, which aired in 2017. In the episode "The Sexual Spectrum", he explained that human sexuality is not binary, but rather a spectrum, and that sex chromosomes are not the only factor that determine one's gender. He also criticized gay conversion therapy and advocated for acceptance and inclusion of LGBTQ+ people. He said: "The world is wonderfully diverse. As scientists we use the scientific method to try and understand that diversity. That is what is happening with the study of human sex and sexuality. Right now, biologists, sociologists, anthropologists, they all are trying to figure this out. And they are finding out that human sexuality is on a spectrum."

In the same episode, he featured a music video by actress Rachel Bloom, titled "My Sex Junk", which celebrated the fluidity of sexual and gender identity with lyrics like "Versatile love may have some butt stuff. It's evolution, ain't nothing new. There's nothing taboo about a sex stew." The episode was nominated for an Emmy Award in 2017.

Bill Nye's views on gender identity have angered some conservatives who accused him of promoting "transgender insanity" and betraying his scientific credibility.  However, Nye has defended his stance by citing scientific evidence and appealing to compassion. He said: "We have this idea that there's just two settings — male and female — but it's actually way more complicated than that ... We're all human, so why not treat each other with respect and dignity?"

In conclusion, the current scientific and sociological understanding supports the validity of transgender identities. It's important to engage in discussions with respect for the dignity and rights of transgender individuals, recognizing the diversity of human experiences and identities. Critical engagement with scientific literature and empathy for the lived experiences of transgender individuals can contribute to a more informed and compassionate dialogue.

The following excerpt was written four years ago, on December 25, 2019, 8:43 AM by Simon Butler.

There’s generally a broad line between antisemitic conspiracy theorists and legitimate scientists, but this week, the gap got a little smaller in one particular instance.

On Monday, Dr. Sabine Hossenfelder, a respected physicist and periodic contributor to *The New York Times*, appeared in a YouTube video with United States born, Japan-based Holocaust denier and self-titled “geopolitical analyst” Ryan Dawson, who interviewed her on problems unrelated to her field during a livestream via his “Antineocon Report” program.

Dawson — who has been banned from platforms such as PayPal, Vimeo, and Google Adsense for his antisemitic, racist, and homophobic hate speech — is known for his highly offensive and extremely disturbing social media activities, including content denigrating noted academic Deborah Lipstadt and denying facts about the Holocaust in a video that lifts and modifies, without authorization, a TED Talk in which she spoke.

Additionally, Dawson has disseminated content on Bitchute — a video-focused website that attracts white supremacists because of its laissez-faire approach to moderation — that supports the ideologies of the terrorist known as the Unabomber, who murdered people by sending them explosive devices, by calling him “legit” and urging people to “read the Unabomber’s manifesto.”

The question remains then, why Hossenfelder — a research fellow at the Frankfurt Institute for Advanced Studies in Germany whose articles not only have appeared in the *Times*, but also in *Scientific American* , PBS’s *NOVA* blog, and other publications — would deign to appear with Dawson in any capacity, let alone a discussion of physics. Hossenfelder primarily generates opinions and other texts on her blog that don’t, in general, relate to any of Dawson’s ideologies, so it’s possible that she didn’t realize the nature of Dawson’s proclivities.

Yet if that’s the case, surely it would have behooved her to research her interviewer before agreeing to come on his show. It’s not a good look to associate with Holocaust-denying conspiracy theorists … particularly ones whose views of science encompass castigation of prominent teenage climate-change activist Greta Thunberg, as Dawson has done on his vk.com page.