​
The Quantum Computing Hype has been Unleashed
​​​​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​​​
​
​
​
​
​
I know a thing or two about hype in physics: I have a PhD in string theory!
​
Over thirty years ago, I read two recently published books by Michio Kaku, "Hyperspace" and "Beyond Einstein", where he discussed string theory.
​
These books gave me the final push to embark on a long journey that culminated in earning my PhD in string theory and several postdocs.
​
However, Michio Kaku has a tendency to be overly enthusiastic and, at times, misleading.
​
This was true with string theory and seems to be happening again with quantum computing.
​
Kaku tends to oversimplify both the subject matter and the role of science in society.
​
A critique also noted by Scott Aaronson.
​
Search for his blog post: “Book Review: ‘Quantum Supremacy’ by Michio Kaku (DO NOT BUY).”
​
Quantum computing is still an emerging technology (don't forget it!) and I believe governments and businesses are doing their best to promote it without veering too far into hype.
​
As long as theoretical and experimental progress continues, the interest of governments, research institutions, and businesses will naturally grow.
​
Will useful quantum computers be ready in the next 15–30 years?
​
Nobody knows.
​
Fortunately, we are in an excellent moment for quantum computing, and we should do as much as we can to promote it.
​
However, we must always keep in mind that, as evidence suggests, we are still far from truly "crossing the chasm".
​
Want to dive deeper? My eBook is a great place to start → https://www.ozatp.com/qaf
​
