Letters to the Universe

Letters to the Universe

Issue 4 | 🕊️ On Scientific Revolution and Our Collective Responsibility

ON THE NATURE OF SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION

How many scientific revolutions have come to pass over the years? With each one comes the undeniable fervor of being positioned just so in these temporal coordinates, this specific moment in space-time such that we have the grand opportunity of experiencing it first-hand. And along with it stand the skeptics, whose caution reminds us that equilibrium may sometimes be a moral necessity. But is disorder not the way of the universe? The more we know, the less we understand.

Previous scientific revolutions have found themselves debated in courtrooms, assessed for their potential to be weaponized, or hailed as saviors for conflicts they never intended to address. As quantum computing finds itself synonymous with discussions on cryptography, supercomputing weaponry, and the question of export restriction, it becomes imperative to ask: what is a nation’s responsibility in scientific revolution?

Quantum computing differentiates from its revolutionary predecessors in complexity. It is by nature an experiment in applied quantum mechanics, the domain we arguably understand the least. It is wrought of abstract mathematics densely composed of symbols outside our spoken language, of theory that defies straightforward visualization and comprehension. We exist in a reality where observation determines outcomes, yet in quantum mechanics, paths remain probabilistic until observed. It is on a scale beyond our immediate cognitive grasp which calls me to ask, how much of this field is humans swaying in the dark hoping to be caught by a kindred hand? May we sway together, may we admit the unknown is the unknown but we will not fear it. Surely that is how all revolutions come to pass.

Through this dialogue, I hope to explore how historical scientific revolutions may inform our present approach to quantum computing, how nations might balance ambition with the necessity of global cooperation, and how we as individuals will ultimately be the central navigational force of the coming advancement. Quantum computing brings with it not only technological opportunity, but also the ability to shape our world together.

LESSONS FROM THE HISTORY OF SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION

When looking to where the future might take us, we may also look to the past to see where we have been. There is undeniable value in turning to the lessons we have already gleaned from our collective efforts in the past, but there is also value in understanding that to go where we have not gone may yet require things we have not done.

The development of nuclear technology during the mid-20th century serves as a potent reminder of the dual-edged nature of scientific breakthroughs. It exemplified how innovation driven by national security concerns can either lead to profound discoveries or global existential risks.

Similarly, the space race was fueled by superpower rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. However, it also advanced satellite technology, telecommunications, and our understanding of the cosmos. And the resulting collaboration, such as the International Space Station, shows the shift from competition to cooperation. Our greatest pushes in scientific endeavor are often most fruitful when there is a focus on shared goals versus isolated efforts.

Today, quantum computing is set to be our latest in competition and collaboration. Like its predecessors, it is a field marked by both intense national interest and the potential for international collaboration. Quantum technologies may promote new capabilities in computing and problem-solving, but also bring challenges in terms of security and ethical use. The lessons from the nuclear and space ages in finding the balance between competition and cooperation remain relevant.

THE QUESTION OF NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT VS GLOBAL COLLABORATION

It is impossible to have a discussion about quantum computing without the consideration of national security. But, if we become too singular in promoting our own national initiatives, we risk turning this unique opportunity for a collaborative global effort into an all out nation-vs-nation race.

Yuval Boger, CMO of QuEra, recently highlighted the complexities of both outcomes. While domestic support for quantum technology is vital, nations should not overlook the benefits of pulling in global innovation. He presents the strategic dilemma faced by countries like France, which must decide whether to go all in on supporting national quantum champions or to embrace the best solutions available, be they French or otherwise. This debate is of course not unique to France but touches on broader themes of nationalism versus globalism in technology development.

On one hand, there is a compelling case for focusing on national development. For instance, the French government has strategically supported local companies in each quantum modality. This approach not only adds to its domestic expertise but also reduces the risks associated with relying on global partnerships, such as potential export restrictions.

Consider the recent partnerships with Japan. While Japan could on one hand be congratulated for its part in shining a light on international partnerships through the IBM/RIKEN integration and the AIST/QuEra collaboration, Japan has also expanded export restrictions on critical quantum computing technologies.

On the other hand, the recent $620M USD investment by the Australian government into the American company PsiQuantum is an additional point in defense of the power of international partnerships. Australia’s decision to support PsiQuantum in building the world’s first utility-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer in Australia demonstrates how global collaborations can be strategic in elevating nations that need a seat at the table in this race.

As quantum technologies continue to evolve, the dialogue between national priorities and global collaboration will surely shape their developmental trajectory and the equitable distribution of their benefits. Much like the nuclear and space ages that have come before, the quantum age requires a synthesis of competition and cooperation, of balanced national pride and global partnership, to fully realize its potential.

THE VALUE OF INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY

However, more important than the actions of nations which are difficult to control on the individual level and often out of our hands, is the importance of science, of our collective pursuit of knowledge through discovery.

Science is, in its purest form, a collaborative endeavor that transcends geographical, political, and cultural boundaries. It is driven by our inherent curiosity and a deep need to know more about what we don’t know. I fully believe that scientists, if left to their own devices, would opt for a world without barriers to science, where collaboration was not just a possibility but a given. Because both talent and the potential for breakthroughs is not a characteristic of any one nation but of the human, no matter the context of education, experience, background, what have you. The next great insight that pushes humanity forward could come from an unexpected source nurtured in a context far removed from traditional centers of power and academia.

In our roles as scientists, researchers, or enthusiasts of quantum, we accept a significant responsibility. We must advocate for and create an environment that not only values but actively promotes the exchange of ideas across borders. This means supporting policies and initiatives that facilitate international cooperation and support the free flow of scientific knowledge. And it means opposing efforts that isolate, restrict, or confine intellectual pursuit to silos. Embracing a multitude of perspectives is not only an ethical obligation but a pragmatic strategy to enhance the depth and breadth of our scientific endeavors.

The challenge before us, therefore, is not just that of achieving fault-tolerance but also to cultivate a vast and varied scientific community.

ACTIONS OVER NICE WORDS

Now, while we may not have the power to direct entire countries or reshape global policies on our own, we are far from powerless. Each of us, in our roles as scientists, engineers, creators, founders, and enthusiasts, can embrace the unity of being in this time and space with this common mission, with this community. We may not control the actions of nations, but we do have full control of our responses.

By embracing these actions, we do more than advance a field of study; we build a community that spans the globe. We shape a world where cooperation triumphs over competition, where the challenges we face are met with collective resolve, and where the future is built by the many, not the few.

So to you, kindred spirits, I say: Let us seize this moment. This era is for us.

Onward.