The Quantum Amplification Problem Appears to be Unsolvable JEFFREY KOPERSKI Abstract For quantum mechanics to form the crux of a robust model of divine action, random quantum fluctuations must be amplified into the macroscopic realm. What has not been recognized in the divine action literature to date is the degree to which differential dynamics, continuum mechanics, and condensed matter physics prevent such fluctuations from infecting meso- and macroscopic systems. Once all of the relevant physics is considered, models of divine action based on quantum randomness are shown to be far more limited than is generally assumed. Unless some sort of new physical mechanism is discovered, the amplification problem cannot be solved. Key words: Divine action; Noninterventionism; Quantum mechanics; Protectorates; Amplification A. Nonintervention and quantum mechanics Working at the border of science and theology, one finds that physics giveth, and physics taketh away. Newton appealed to God in order to explain the dynamic stability of the planets; Lagrange later showed that the solar system is sufficiently stable that we don’t need to worry about it. 1 Theists hailed the Big Bang as proof of creation a finite time ago; cosmologists now seem determined to eliminate the singularity from their spacetime models. Then there is the question of how God governs creation. In particular, are there ways in which God might act without violating the laws of nature? Many today in science-and-religion circles believe that quantum mechanics has answered this question. The intrinsic randomness of the quantum world, we’re told, provides the means through which God can act without breaking natural law. And so physics giveth. As we shall see, physics has once again turned fickle. The central argument of this paper is that whatever God might do at the quantum level, nature by and large prevents those actions from affecting the macroscopic realm. Some readers know that I have just thrown down the gauntlet. For those who aren’t sure what the fight is about, let’s go back to the idea of noninterventionism: God does not violate the laws of nature. One extreme version of this was Enlight- enment-era deism, in which God creates and sustains the universe, but that is it. No miracles, no special revelation. 2 © 2015 Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences Theology and Science, 2015 Vol. 13, No. 4, 378–393, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14746700.2015.1082872 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 RTAS1082872 Techset Composition India (P) Ltd., Bangalore and Chennai, India 9/9/2015