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Hugh Everett III

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1930–1982 · quantum mechanics, interpretations of quantum theory, quantum cosmology
American physicist, creator of the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics (1957), which asserts that the wave function never collapses, and all possible outcomes of quantum events are realized in parallel universes. Although his ideas were not recognized during his lifetime, they later became the foundation of quantum cosmology and decoherence.

Biography

Graduated from the Catholic University of America, then studied physics at Princeton under John Wheeler. His dissertation 'The Theory of the Universal Wave Function' contained the many-worlds interpretation. After academic setbacks, worked in the defense sector, doing mathematical modeling and analysis.

Key discoveries

💡 Everett was a passionate proponent of rational egoism and believed that the many-worlds interpretation guaranteed him immortality, as there would always be a branch where he survives.
Quote: "The objective world simply exists, and there is no need for wave function collapse."
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