David Deutsch is an Oxford-based theoretical physicist and is one of the founders of the new field of quantum computing. He is also keenly interested in the philosophy of science, where he has been developing post-Popperian theories of explanation.
The Fabric of Reality is an ambitious attempt to unify four strands of modern scientific thought -
- quantum theory
- theory of scientific knowledge (epistemology)
- computing theory (Turing and Gödel)
- evolution theory (Darwin and Dawkins)
Deutsch bases his theme on the concept of multiple universes, which emerges from quantum theory as a solution to some of its inherent problems. From there he extends into virtual reality, time travel, and the possibilities (and constraints) of near-infinite computing power. He draws parallels between knowledge and genetically coded information.
If all this sounds like the weirdest of science fiction, remember that this is a serious book. Deutsch has successfully aimed at an interested - but not necessarily expert - audience, but a glance at the reviews and comments on his website (see below) will show that his ideas have sparked serious academic debate. Not all his readers will agree with him, and there are other competing theories such as the "multiple minds" approach developed by Oxford philosopher Michael Lockwood which offer alternative solutions to some of the problems with quantum theory.
I am glad to have read this book (and to have heard Deutsch present his arguments to an informed audience). You can read about him and his other interests, which include child development and education, on his website here
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