The speaker studies quantum physics and quantum computing, and is currently developing **constructor theory**—a new explanatory framework for physical reality. Unlike traditional physics, which relies on dynamical laws and initial conditions to predict how systems evolve, constructor theory treats statements about what transformations are possible or impossible as fundamental. By focusing on these “what can/cannot be done” principles, it yields deeper insights, especially for phenomena that standard laws handle only approximately—such as information, the organization of information in biological systems, and aspects of work and heat. This approach also offers a promising route toward a unified theory that can reconcile quantum mechanics and general relativity, enabling new predictions and experiments where conventional methods fall short. In short, constructor theory shifts the mode of explanation from trajectories to feasibility, providing a broader, more fundamental toolkit for understanding physics.
1. I study quantum physics.
2. Quantum physics is one of the most fundamental theories about physical reality.
3. Microgreen is involved in quantum computing.
4. Quantum computing is a theory proposed a while ago to use quantum effects to power computing machines.
5. Quantum computers have become more or less a mainstream technology.
6. Theoretical physicists are interested in what lies beyond current quantum computing.
7. New proposals to advance the laws of physics have emerged from quantum computing.
8. One such proposal is constructor theory.
9. I am currently working on constructor theory.
10. Constructor theory is a new mode of explanation for physical reality.
11. Constructor theory aims to provide a deeper and broader explanation than existing physics.
12. The deepest question is whether a more fundamental mode of explanation for physical reality exists.
13. Currently, the best approach for theoretical physicists is to find a dynamical law applicable to the whole universe.
14. Given initial conditions, such a law can predict the universe’s future or past state.
15. This dynamical‑law approach has been used since Galileo’s and Newton’s times.
16. The dynamical‑law approach does not capture some important aspects of physical reality.
17. One aspect not captured is information.
18. Traditional physics treats information only approximately and not exactly.
19. The laws that underlie information itself are not captured by traditional physics.
20. This limitation was a key motive for proposing constructor theory.
21. The most important part of a physical theory is what it forbids.
22. A universe where everything is allowed is less interesting than one where only some things are allowed.
23. Stating that something is impossible provides an explanation with insight into physical reality.
24. An example is the first law of thermodynamics, which states that energy must be conserved.
25. This law implies that a perpetual motion machine is impossible.
26. By stating impossibility, the law rules out a whole set of phenomena without detailing particle trajectories.
27. Constructor theory uses statements about what tasks or transformations are possible or impossible as fundamental.
28. From these statements, constructor theory derives explanations about the rest of physics.
29. Constructor theory does not rely on specific dynamical laws or trajectories.
30. Changing the mode of explanation allows constructor theory to capture phenomena that traditional physics can only approximate.
31. These phenomena include those related to information.
32. They also include regularities underlying the production and organization of information in biological systems.
33. They include phenomena related to work and heat.
34. There is currently no unique proposal for a successor theory to both quantum theory and general relativity.
35. Quantum theory and general relativity clash with each other.
36. In some experimental regimes both theories are important, but their clash prevents predictions.
37. A theory that merges both is needed to make predictions in those regimes.
38. Constructor theory’s principles are useful in these regimes because they do not rely on a specific dynamical law.
39. Constructor theory still allows predictions and explanations in those regimes.
40. This approach could enable new experimental demonstrations not otherwise conceivable.
41. The goal is to make progress in areas where the traditional approach does not work by using constructor theory’s radical switch.
42. If successful, constructor theory would provide a new array of tools for understanding physics and physical reality.