[RappingBoomer]

but is it not hubris to think that we really know much about the origin and outcome of the universe? is it wise to make decisions based on this modicum of knowledge that we currently have regarding thermodynamics and the universe?

I suspect that the scientists of a trillion years from now will know a lot more than we do know...so, I don't really much that much confidence in current pronouncements regarding the beginning and possible end of the universe..

and yes I do have a degree in science and courses in physics & thermodynamics

[tomcatfish]

As the old quote runs...

"[W]hen people thought the earth was flat, they were wrong. When people thought the earth was spherical, they were wrong. But if you think that thinking the earth is spherical is just as wrong as thinking the earth is flat, then your view is wronger than both of them put together." -- Asimov

It isn't wise to say you're ignorant, it's wise to know how ignorant you are. If I see a coin come up HHH and have to bet on the next 2 flips, you can be damn sure I'll bet HH. You can bet HT, TH, or whatever else at equal probability, but I suspect I'll come out the winner more frequently than you.

[lazide]

Does it hurt to try?

[RappingBoomer]

it hurts to make decisions based on our current knowledge that is a child's knowledge

[lazide]

How exactly? And how exactly would we ever get past a ‘child’s knowledge’ without learning and making mistakes?

[mhh__]

The models we have work and are relatively parsimonious. It would be silly to assume they are final but equally silly to shy away from using them for obvious reasons.

The modernization of physics also means we have outlines for what theories should look like, so even if our current theories are wrong we can still use the principles of (say) symmetry and information to constrain future work.