A numbers game.

The article explores a long-standing debate among physicists regarding the number of fundamental constants necessary to describe reality. The discussion originated in 1992 among three physicists—Gabriele Veneziano, Lev Okun, and Michael Duff—who proposed differing views on whether two, three, or even zero constants are essential. Traditionally, three constants— the speed of light (c), Planck's constant (h), and the gravitational constant (G)—have been considered foundational in physics, linking key concepts of relativity, quantum mechanics, and gravity. Recent research by George Matsas and colleagues suggests that only one constant, related to time measurement, may be necessary, highlighting the ongoing complexity and philosophical implications of defining the universe's fundamental nature. [Extracted from the article]