ABSTRACT

In Blackfoot Physics (1996), physicist David Peat tells the story of how he was invited to visit with the Blackfoot tribe to be part of a special celebration ceremony. He arrived at the pre-arranged time, only to find that nothing was happening. Some people were filtering into the meeting grounds, but no special activity seemed to be taking place. He waited. A few days later still nothing was happening. People continued to arrive, chat, connect with one another, enjoy themselves, but no ceremony was taking place. In growing irritation he began to question people: ‘Am I in the right place? Did I get the date right? Is something going to happen?’ He was greeted with equanimity and the polite advice to be patient.