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Jolted: Whose Troubled Reality?

Werner Heisenberg

By DAVID TOPPER Deeply absorbed in an exceptionally long essay in the New York Review of Books about a very esoteric book on “the trouble with reality” – and I’m speaking here of epistemology and ontology; namely, that nature of “reality” – and more specifically as elucidated by mainly this trio of thinkers (Immanuel Kant, Jorge Luis Borges, & Werner Heisenberg; in order, philosopher, novelist, & physicist), I feel ever drawn deeper into their sometimes paradoxical worlds. A world, for example, envisioned by Borges, in which a man has such perfect memory that he can recall every leaf of every tree that he has seen in his entire life; but, nonetheless, cannot comprehend the word “tree.” Indeed, what do we mean when we say “tree”? What is our thought process compared to this gifted, but unfortunate, man? It’s also the world, going back to one of the earliest Greek thinkers of whom we know, Zeno of Elea. He put forward this paradox: if a man walks toward a wall, he must go halfway there, and once there, he again goes halfway to the wall, and once again halfway, etc. But this can go on forever, cutting the path in half: halfway, halfway, halfway, etc. It therefore would take an infinite time to get to the wall; and hence, the only logical conclusion is that motion itself is an illusion. This is an example of the disjunction between what we see, and how it is when we probe deeper, rationally analyzing its parts. It was intellectual puzzlements like this that Kant said “woke me out of my dogmatic slumber” and formed the basis of what he called a critique of pure reason, where he methodically wrestled with the trouble with reality.
Diving still deeper, now into the sub-atomic world of quantum physics, it gets even more “spooky” as we try to measure, say, the location and momentum of an electron. (Precisely: momentum is mass multiplied by speed.) But here’s the problem. The answer to this question from quantum physics is that as we zero in on the electron’s exact location, the momentum goes to infinity (ah, that concept again). And likewise, as we measure the momentum of the electron, zeroing ever closer to its exact number, its position goes to infinity. In short, we can precisely know its momentum, but then have no idea where this electron resides in the entire universe. This fundamental scientific conundrum was the brainchild of Heisenberg.
As I read further into this “trouble with reality,” I come across this: the author says that one of the most memorable passages in the entire book that she is reviewing is from a 1942 essay by Heisenberg on the use of language in physics.
Heisenberg in 1942? Where? Leipzig or Berlin. Does it matter?
Jolted out of my esoteric reverie, I’m back in Germany in the 1940s.
No. Stop. Read this memorable passage. “The natural laws formulated mathematically in quantum theory no longer deal with the elementary particles themselves but with our knowledge of them. Nor is it any longer possible to ask whether or not these particles exist in space and time objectively. When we speak of the picture of nature in the exact science of our age, we do not mean a picture of nature so much as a picture of our relationship with nature.”
Yet, Germany. World War II. Images flash up: synagogues everywhere disappearing in flames, emaciated prisoners entrapped in death camps, mass shootings of entire villages with bodies dumped into deep ravines.
Wait, 1942. Heisenberg appointed principal scientist in the Nazi nuclear weapons program – the aim being to build a bomb.
But, focus. Back to this “memorable” passage. Heisenberg tells me that “science no longer confronts nature as an objective observer, but sees itself as an actor in this interplay between man and nature. The scientific method of analyzing, explaining, and classifying has become conscious of its limitations, which arise out of the fact that by its intervention, science alters and refashions the object of investigation. In other words, method and object can no longer be separated.”
Yes, yet. What about Heisenberg’s immediate, everyday world? How does he separate himself from this reality? Jewish shops and stores looted. Jews forced to stand in public with signs around their necks say they are “dirty Jews.” Brown-shirted thugs beat up non-Aryan men and woman in public, without retribution. Young girls dragged into dark alleys.
This is no daydream. It can’t be rationalized away. Despite “that infinitely complex association among words and concepts, without which we would lack any sense at all that we have understood anything of the infinite abundance of reality.”
This esoteric world can no longer hold my attention. It’s not the trouble with reality anymore. It’s now Heisenberg’s very, very troubled reality, right in front of him!
Things fall apart; the center cannot hold.
Is he like the man who knows every leaf but can’t comprehend the tree?
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world.
I only know that I’m unable to concentrate on, and to comprehend his otherwise memorable passage.
The best lack all conviction.
Not now, anyway.
While the worst are full of passionate intensity.
I must contemplate the prophetic words of Yeats.
Yes.
Poetry.
Now.

                *****

Sources: Meghan O’Gieblyn, “The Trouble with Reality,” New York Review of Books, March 21, 2024, pp. 10-16. William Butler Yeats, “The Second Coming.” This poem was first published in 1920.

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The Allure of Cherry Scents in Modern Fragrance Trends

Cherry-scented perfumes have become the new darling of the fragrance world. Thanks to their fruity notes and unique ability to bring out sophistication and warmth, cherry perfumes are an emerging trend in the modern world of scents.

One of the most famous perfumes of the generation is the Tom Ford Lost Cherry and the well-loved fragrance is simply unbeatable. They’re so developed, deep, and warm. For customers looking for a more affordable option, perfumes like Ambery Cherry have found a nice middle between luxury and attainability.

Why Cherry Scents Are Having a Moment

Cherry fragrances offer sophistication, freshness, and complexity. These perfumes strike a perfect balance between sweetness and adulthood, making them suitable for any occasion and mood. Cherries are a symbol of indulgence, delectability, and nostalgia. There are several fragrance users who want more than just a nice and simple scent; they’re looking for a story too.

For this reason, a lot of perfumers have gotten extra inventive with their cherry notes, including other notes that establish a unique story. Almond notes, tonka bean, smoky undertones – anything that can place wearers directly on a unique pedestal in an olfactory universe. With this newfound creativity, cherry-scented perfumes have become a genre of their own in the world of luxury perfumes.

Cherry Fragrances and the Senses

Just imagine the moment when someone with cherry fragrance sprays it on their skin. The first notes that blossom through are of tangy, sweet cherry juice. You are then transported to an orchard bathed in sunlight. That is the kind of sensory experience you get with a cherry fragrance.

They’re the right mix of elegant and playful and warm and bold. Again, the likes of Tom Ford Lost Cherry have raised the bar when it comes to making a perfect fragrance. This has, in turn, resulted in the likes of Ambery Cherry becoming easily available to the masses.

Cherry Scents as Personal Statements

Fragrances are not just some additional accessory but an extension to your personality. Cherry fragrances, with their warmth and alluring nature, allow the wearer to make some pretty unforgettable, striking statements everywhere they go. The kind of people who stop and give them a try are people who enjoy timeless elegance while remaining modern and fresh! There is something about cherry fragrances that intrigues you. You just can’t pinpoint what it is but they smell divine.

Finding the Perfect Cherry Fragrance

Given that cherry fragrances are so hot right now, you might find yourself doing a double take as you try to navigate your next move. The best way to decide is to choose one that aligns with your personal style. If your tastes run to the daring and complex, Tom Ford Lost Cherry might tickle your fancy.

If you are after a comparable experience at a more appropriate price tag, there are options like Ambery Cherry as alternatives. They make cherry perfumes accessible to everyone, no matter how deep their pockets are. This will only mean that more of us will experience and fall in love with this note.

Embrace the Cherry Trend

Cherry perfumes are for everyone but many already know this, especially now that there are affordable alternatives. For those who are regular shoppers at luxury perfume counters, don’t let this amazing scent escape your growing collection. Welcome to the beautiful world of cherry perfumes. Now that there are pocket-friendly yet luxurious editions, what is stopping you from considering them?

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Exploring the Technology Behind CrazyVegas’s Seamless Gameplay

With the fastest load speeds, the smoothest play, the most reliable form of security and so many more exciting extras, going with this CrazyVegas online casino really is like magic. But what’s behind all these, you ask? What are the crazy ins and outs of the system that continually delivers the fun and excitement to you, the player?

Advanced Servers for Lightning-Fast Performance

Nothing ruins an awesome gaming experience quite like lag — or bugs. Overheated servers, not enough server-pressure points, and even the choice of a hard drive over a solid-state drive because if the host is lagging, you’re lagging. And at CrazyVegas, we don’t do “lagging,” or its little brother, downtime.

Because as cool as all of the above is and more, we are focused on keeping the good times rolling with as little interruption on your desktop, tablet, or mobile and hassle-free infrastructure.

Cutting-edge Graphics Powered by HTML5

The design makes or breaks the online casino. Some even say it’s as important as games. With HTML5 used in CrazyVegas, there’s nothing to worry about. The game design and graphics look and act just about the part. All modes can be played on any size screen without a clumsy or confusing transition.

From playing that latest slot to getting into that poker final and anything in between. There’s a clear view of all the visuals and there are no visual bugs that make it painful on the eyes. All thanks to magical HTML5.

AI and Machine Learning for Personalized Experiences

Beneath the system, the AI and machine learning algorithms are creating a uniquely designed gaming world for each player. CrazyVegas uses AI to analyze players’ input and then provide real-time gameplay and promotional offers depending on this player’s preferences.

If the AI detects this player has a preference for games that require more strategy (e.g. BlackJack) then this could result in higher table games or even more game tips to help you play and win. This has made the system create an experience built for the people who play it. But decentralized at the same time.

Secure Transactions with Blockchain Integration

Security is paramount in any online casino, and CrazyVegas doesn’t disappoint. By utilizing blockchain technology, this online casino can provide an unprecedented level of security (and transparency) online — beyond anything else in the industry. With blockchain, user funds are safe and games are fairer.

Any transaction (e.g., deposit, withdrawal) is encrypted and transmitted securely, channeled onto a decentralized contract ledger that ensures your money plus data are safe from any kind of hack.

Mobile Optimization

With the days we live in now, online gaming is a form of relaxation and this casino is just as good as its competition. It is mobile-friendly, meaning a customer can play whenever, wherever!

Thanks to the design and discomfort of cookies, this online casino is for any player. It doesn’t matter if you are at home or just about anywhere, you can definitely play your favorite games on your mobile.

Fair Play with RNG Technology

One of the most important aspects of online gaming is fairness. CrazyVegas has this well covered and uses Random Number Generator (RNG) technology throughout its games to ensure that all game outcomes are entirely random.

Third-party independent testing ensures this remains the case, and our users can be certain they are all in with a fair and equal chance. And with us, the gameplay really is a play that can be trusted!

The Future of Gaming at CrazyVegas

As technologies evolve, we evolve too. CrazyVegas always follows the edge of the possible and even more, providing all the incredible tech pieces to give you more depth and more awesomeness in your gambling. Imagine walking into your VR casino, chatting with other players and a dealer in real time, or using AR to make your gambling appear right on your dinner table! All the tech pieces are endless, and we will take it all to provide the best new experiences to our players.

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Remembrance of Things Present

Bill Marantz

By BILL MARANTZ When I woke up, on Monday, November 11, I forgot it was Remembrance Day. Or, as the “Chosen People” call it, Groundhog Day. Aka: “today.” True, as usual, I had pinned on a fake poppy (that, as usual, had fallen off) but that is the extent of my involvement in this memorial holiday. You don’t have to be reminded of something you can’t forget.

Take the Holocaust.

Please. As far as Velvel Marantz is concerned, Yom Hashoah is redundant. An annual guilt trip I’ve been on since the age of ten, shortly after Donald Trump’s previous incarnation made an ash of himself, and his “Final Solution” was revealed. To atone for the sin of being born in Canada, and being too young to be forced to risk my life on a European battlefield, I would lie awake, in bed, and torture myself with fantasies of being tossed into a roaring fire, kicking and screaming, as the iron door shut behind me. In my innocence, I didn’t realize it was not my European brothers and sisters that were fuel for Adolph Hitler’s “ovens,” but their lifeless remains.

When I learned the true details of their martyrdom, I had a slightly less harrowing nightmare to conjure up. One that involved “shower rooms” that dispensed Cyclone B, rather than H2O. This may seem like a rather morbid turn of mind but I am not an exception, but the rule. That’s what Judaism is all about. Remembrance of things present. Every morning, the first thing we do, is count our blessings. Recite fourteen prayers of thanks that can be summed up in a single prayer: “Thank you, ha’Shem for letting me wake up.” And every Saturday, and Jewish holiday, we recite a passage from the same book we’ve been reading for several thousand years. Lest we forget where we came from, and where we don’t want to go.

Again.

It’s like a joke my late friend Ron Brooker, who worked for Fox films, used to tell. The Jolson Story and Jolson Sing Again were such big hits that they were thinking of making another sequel: Jolson Sings Again and Again.

Jews dominate the movie industry but we don’t all go to the synagogue. Or “Temple,” as my New York cousins say. Not all Jews are created equal. There are secular Jews, self-hating Jews and assimilated Jews, who don’t “identify” as Jews (to use the current jargon). But there’s no escape. It’s like the Mafia. “Just when I think I’m out, they pull me back in!” Judaism is not a choice; it’s “bashert.” A blessing and a curse. Like winning a Gold Medal in the women’s 100 meter butterfly and still having to pee, standing up. To paraphrase my favorite author, Isaac Bashevis Singer: “If you ever forget you’re a Jew, don’t worry, there will always be a Gentile around to remind you.”

Which is why I don’t bother to celebrate Remembrance Day.

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