JOURNAL ARTICLE

Do aliens do physics?

  • Published In: New Scientist, 2026, v. 269, n. 3586. P. 42 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Whiteson, Daniel 3 of 3

Abstract

The article explores whether extraterrestrial intelligences, shaped by different biology or culture, would develop physics theories fundamentally different from human ones. It suggests that physics, as practiced by humans, may reflect our specific cognitive and cultural perspectives rather than universal truths, highlighting concepts like time and causality that might be understood differently by aliens. The piece also considers that alien technologies might arise independently of theoretical understanding, contrasting with the human tendency to link science and technology. Ultimately, it proposes that physics could be viewed as a collection of useful frameworks rather than a single, definitive description of reality, encouraging openness to alternative scientific paradigms. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:New Scientist. 2026/03, Vol. 269, Issue 3586, p42
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0262-4079
  • Accession Number:192215805
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