Quantum 2.0: Paul Davies on the next revolution in physics

Quantum Quantum Podcasts Quantum 2.0: Paul Davies on the next revolution in physics 19 Nov 2025 James Dacey In this episode of Physics World Stories, theoretical physicist, cosmologist and author Paul Davies discusses his latest book, Quantum 2.0: The Past, Present, and Future of Quantum Physics. A Regents Professor at Arizona State University, Davies reflects on how the first quantum revolution transformed our understanding of nature – and what the next one might bring. He explores how emerging quantum technologies are beginning to merge with artificial intelligence, raising new ethical and philosophical questions. Could quantum AI help tackle climate change or tackle issues like hunger? And how far should we go in outsourcing planetary management to machines that may well prioritize their own survival? Davies also turns his gaze to the arts, imagining a future where quantum ideas inspire music, theatre and performance. From jazz improvized by quantum algorithms to plays whose endings depend on quantum outcomes, creativity itself could enter a new superposition. Hosted by Andrew Glester, this episode blends cutting-edge science and imagination in trademark Paul Davies style. This article forms part of Physics World‘s contribution to the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), which aims to raise global awareness of quantum physics and its applications. Stayed tuned to Physics World and our international partners throughout the year for more coverage of the IYQ. Find out more on our quantum channel. Want to read more? Registration is free, quick and easy Note: The verification e-mail to complete your account registration should arrive immediately. However, in some cases it takes longer. Don't forget to check your spam folder. If you haven't received the e-mail in 24 hours, please contact customerservices@ioppublishing.org. E-mail Address Register James Dacey is a multimedia journalist based in Madrid Back to Quantum Physics World Quantum Briefing 2.0 Read our free digital issue of the Physics World Quantum Briefing today. Read previous Better coffee, easier parking and more: the fascinating physics of daily life Everyday science Podcasts Discover more from Physics World Quantum Research update Ten-ion system brings us a step closer to large-scale qubit registers Quantum Blog The future of quantum physics and technology debated at the Royal Institution Quantum mechanics Research update Playing games by the quantum rulebook expends less energy Related jobs United Kingdom | University of Oxford - Department of Physics Associate Professor of Physics (Quantum Technology) United States | Rice University Assistant Professor in Experimental AMO Physics Germany | IMPRS for Chemistry and Physics of Quantum Materials PhD positions Related events Scientific enterprise | Conference SEMICON Europa 18—21 November 2025 | Munich, Germany Quantum | Conference Q2B25 Silicon Valley: the Roadmap to Quantum Value 9—11 December 2025 | Santa Clara, US Quantum | Workshop Post-selection for quantum control (PoSeQu26) 23—27 February 2026 | Dresden, Germany Copyright © 2025 by IOP Publishing Ltd and individual contributors