Carlo Rovelli's 'On the Equality of All Things' Explores Relational Quantum Mechanics

Carlo Rovelli, the Verona-born physicist known for his accessible science writing, has released a new book titled 'On the Equality of All Things: Physics and Philosophy'. The book, published by Penguin on 15 September, presents Rovelli's relational interpretation of quantum mechanics and argues for abandoning the idea of an ultimate foundation of reality. It emerged from a guest lecturing stint at Princeton University's Department of Philosophy in late 2024 and comprises six chapters framed as 'lessons'. In an interview with AnOther, Rovelli described the work as an 'end of career book' that culminates his research on quantum gravity and the nature of space and time. He explained that quantum mechanics reveals properties are always relations, not intrinsic to objects, and that this relationality is the 'grammar of nature'. Rovelli also critiqued the Enlightenment dream of a complete, objective understanding, asserting that physics itself has undermined the notion of an accessible objective description. He emphasized that certainty is not necessary and can hinder learning, sharing a personal anecdote about his father's mistaken name. The book aims to show that partial perspectives and knowledge are sufficient for guiding life. Rovelli's poetic style and interdisciplinary approach are evident throughout, making complex scientific ideas accessible to a broad audience.