2013-06-22
Explanation
This comic features a "Pro Tip" banner at the top that reads: "The '''quantum''' in quantum mechanics refers only to the existence of discrete quantities." Below, a woman with glasses says, "I only work with one ass at a time." A red-haired man responds, "So you'''re a... quantum proctologist."
The joke plays on the actual meaning of the word "quantum." In popular culture, "quantum" is often used as a buzzword to mean something exotic, mysterious, or impossibly advanced. However, in physics, "quantum" simply refers to the fact that certain physical properties (like energy) come in discrete, indivisible units rather than continuous values. A proctologist who works with one rear end at a time is technically dealing in discrete quantities of butts -- hence, a "quantum proctologist." The humor lies in applying the correct but mundane definition of "quantum" to an inherently unglamorous medical specialty.
In the votey, the woman continues: "All butt collections come in multiples of this quantity" while writing "1 butt" on a board, and someone gasps in astonishment. This extends the parody of quantum mechanics further -- just as energy comes in discrete quanta (multiples of Planck'''s constant), all butt collections come in multiples of one butt. It is technically true but hilariously trivial, mimicking how fundamental physics discoveries are often presented with great fanfare.