Understanding Causal Set Theory and Its Implications for the Universe

In summary, causal set theory proposes that the universe should be seen as a set of discrete events with causal relations between them. This concept is related to Sorkin's work, who founded it. In terms of quantum fields, every point in space and time is considered an event and this theory assumes that there are only finitely many points in spacetime, spaced closely enough to appear continuous. This results in a discrete and inherently discrete nature of spacetime. The idea of a continuum emerging from discrete elements is still being explored and debated by researchers such as Xiao-Gang Wen. However, in order to define a low energy limit, a fixed smooth background is often assumed, which may imply a preferred frame in the Milne spacetime.
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Anyone heard of causal set theory before? Basically, it is a concept that our universe should be viewed solely as set of discrete events and the causal relations between them. I wrote a thesis where I described the Lagrangians of quantum fields. Please let me know what you think: arXiv:0905.2263
 
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  • #2
Is this related to Sorkin's work?
 
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Yes, Sorkin founded it
 
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What counts as an "event" (when you are describing quantum fields)?
 
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Every point of space time is referred to as event. The only reason there are finitely many "events" is that I assume that there are only finitely many points in space time; they just are spaced so densely that they look continuous to us.

By the way, when I say "spaced so densely", it is not a well defined term since there is nothing "between" these points (after all, spacetime=points). So, according to causal set theory, spacetime, by its nature, is discrete, and its discrete elements are called events.
 
  • #6
How is a continuum derived from discrete elements?

I've heard Xiao-Gang Wen say something similar, like the fundamental elements are spins or qbits with nothing between them. But I think when he talks about the low energy limit, that assumes some sort of fixed smooth background to define low energy.
 
  • #7
Thinking of the Milne spacetime, it seems like it would be difficult for the density of a discrete spacetime not to produce a preferred frame?

(I'm not really disagreeing with the discrete approaches, just wondering if you could explain it a little more?)
 

What is Causal Set Theory?

Causal Set Theory is a theory that proposes that the fundamental structure of the universe is made up of discrete, causal elements or "events". These events are connected by causal relationships, which form a partial order. This theory suggests that the continuous space and time we perceive is actually an emergent property of this underlying causal structure.

How does Causal Set Theory differ from other theories of the universe?

Causal Set Theory differs from other theories, such as General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics, in that it does not assume a continuous spacetime. Instead, it posits that the universe is fundamentally discrete and causal, with events being the building blocks of reality.

What are the implications of Causal Set Theory for our understanding of the universe?

Causal Set Theory has several implications for our understanding of the universe. For example, it may provide an explanation for the fundamental constants of nature, as well as the origin of the laws of physics. It also has the potential to reconcile the theories of General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics, which have been notoriously difficult to merge.

What evidence supports Causal Set Theory?

Currently, there is no direct evidence for Causal Set Theory. However, some researchers have proposed that the discrete nature of spacetime could be observed through certain physical phenomena, such as the distribution of matter in the universe and the behavior of particles at extremely high energies.

What are the potential applications of Causal Set Theory?

Causal Set Theory has potential applications in a variety of fields, including cosmology, quantum gravity, and even computer science. It may also have implications for our understanding of the nature of time and causality, and could lead to new technologies and advancements in our understanding of the universe.

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