Hard Problem of Physics

Why is the universe so perfectly, unexpectedly intelligible to the human mind? Physics reveals a cosmos governed by elegant, mathematical laws that our relatively small, evolved brains can comprehend. The hard problem is explaining this "unreasonable effectiveness of mathematics." We evolved to throw spears and avoid predators, not to intuit non-Euclidean geometry or quantum spin. So why does our internally-generated logic (math) map so perfectly onto the deep structure of external reality? This points to either a miraculous coincidence or a deep connection between consciousness and cosmos that physics, as currently constituted, cannot explain.

Example: A physicist, using symbols on a chalkboard (general relativity), predicts that light will bend around the sun by a specific angle. Astronomers observe it during an eclipse, and the prediction is confirmed exactly. The hard problem: How did a pattern in that ape-descended brain's thoughts correspond to a curvature in the fabric of spacetime billions of years old and light-years away? The universe is under no obligation to conform to human logic, yet it does, with spooky precision. This success is the field’s greatest triumph and its most profound mystery. Hard Problem of Physics.

by Enkigal January 24, 2026

Hard Problem of Physicalism

A more nuanced version of materialism's problem. Physicalism claims everything is physical or supervenes on the physical. The hard problem is defining "the physical" without circularity. Physics describes the behavior of matter, but doesn't define its essence. Furthermore, if physics is just our best current model, then physicalism becomes the claim "everything is whatever our current physics says it is," which is both provisional and strangely empty. It's materialism with a philosophy degree, but still struggling.

*Example: "She's a physicalist but admits physics doesn't have a clue about consciousness. The hard problem of physicalism: she believes consciousness is 100% physical, but 'the physical' is an ever-changing list of quarks, fields, and maybe strings. She's betting on a mystery being solved by a moving target."*

by Abzugal January 30, 2026