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About this quote

What does it mean?
Understanding quantum theory is difficult and often defies common sense, so feeling shocked is a sign of real comprehension.
In plain terms
If quantum physics doesn't seem strange to you, you probably haven't grasped it yet.
What can you take from it?
Embrace the confusion as a sign you are learning something deep.

Where it applies

  • learning physics
  • studying science
  • discussing theory

Putting it to work

  • study quantum mechanics
  • expect conceptual shifts
  • discuss paradoxes

Questions to consider

  • How do you react to counterintuitive ideas?
  • What feels strange about reality?

Another view

Some experts argue familiarity can reduce shock over time.

More from Niels Bohr

  1. Every sentence I utter must be understood not as an affirmation, but as a question.

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  2. Some subjects are so serious that one can only joke about them.

    Permalink to quote #15
  3. An expert is a man who has made all the mistakes which can be made in a very narrow field.

    Permalink to quote #12

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