Blogger: Dave Bacon
URL: scienceblogs.com/pontiff
First post: September 2003
Who is the blog written by?
Dave Bacon is a physicist at the University of Washington in the US who works in the departments of physics and of computer science and engineering. He is interested in quantum-information science; in particular how to build a quantum computer, and what to do with one once it is built.
What topics does the blog cover?
Anything that Bacon finds interesting. There is a fair amount about quantum computing, and computing and physics in general, but also plenty of links to random news articles, forums and websites. Posts range from one-line comments to lengthy monologues extolling Bacon’s thoughts about topics such as giving scientific talks and why he is still in the field of quantum computing. He also regularly posts adverts for job opportunities in quantum information and related areas.
Who is it aimed at?
Many of the references to people and topics in quantum computing will only make sense to those within the field, but the blog is generally nontechnical and most of the posts discuss things from Bacon’s day-to-day life or poke fun at nonsensical articles about physics. For example, he recently drew attention to an article on the website Inquirer.net that claims that since “the world of particle physics that quantum physicists see is indescribable from the Newtonian stand point”, it cannot be understood rationally and scientifically, and hence is the same as the world that mystics describe. These posts will appeal to anyone who appreciates science.
Why should I read it?
Bacon’s blog is written with plenty of humour and considerable knowledge about and enthusiasm for science and computing. And if you’re looking for an academic position in quantum computing, then it is certainly more entertaining than most recruitment websites!
How often is it updated?
It varies — Bacon often posts short comments on interesting online material as he comes across it, resulting in several posts a day. At other times it can be a few days between postings.
Can you give me a sample quote?
Tonight I watched NOVA’s Judgement Day: Intelligent Design On Trial. Ah shucks, us quantum physicists never get to have so much fun (err, I mean, experience so much pain and deal with so much silliness) trying to defend our science. It’s not like, you know, there aren’t people who think quantum theory is wrong or that quantum theory is somehow related to the Vedic teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. So why is it that quantum theory (which after all is “just a theory” wink, wink, nod, nod) doesn’t illicit courtroom battles of such epic scope as the Dover trial?
