Living in a Closed-Loop Universe?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a closed-loop universe, where time is perceived as cyclical, potentially returning to a starting point. Participants explore philosophical implications, scientific observations, and theoretical models related to the nature of time and the universe's structure.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that time could be like a rubber band, existing in a closed loop without a beginning or end.
  • Others argue that while the idea is philosophically appealing, scientific conclusions require observation and mathematical backing.
  • A participant mentions that the concept of a closed-loop universe is a known solution to the equations of General Relativity, referencing "Godel's universe."
  • One participant expresses skepticism, suggesting that if a closed loop were possible, phenomena like nuclear disintegration would contradict it unless elements were regenerated.
  • Another participant questions the possibility of escaping from a closed loop.
  • There is speculation about the universe thinning out enough for quantum fluctuations to trigger another big bang, with discussions on the balance of gravitational forces affecting the universe's longevity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement. While some find the closed-loop concept intriguing, others challenge its feasibility based on current scientific understanding and observations. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in proving philosophical claims about the nature of time and the universe, as well as the dependence on definitions and interpretations of scientific theories.

Aki
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Do you think we could living in a universe where time is like a rubber band; it has no beginning and no end, as it continues forever in a closed loop. So basically after a loop, then time returns to zero. But is it possible that we are living in a closed loop?
 
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It is possible, and it is philosophically appealing, but, science prefers observation and math before drawing conclusions. Even God prefers logic over chaos.
 
Chronos said:
It is possible, and it is philosophically appealing, but, science prefers observation and math before drawing conclusions. Even God prefers logic over chaos.

I agree 100%. However, Gods logic may well be much different from ours.
 
mijoon said:
I agree 100%. However, Gods logic may well be much different from ours.
That statement would be impossible to "prove".
 
Let's bring this back to a discussion of the nature of time.
& I'll move this to the general A&C forum.
thanks
 
So even if we are in a closed loop, we would never be able to realize that, right?
 
Aki said:
Do you think we could living in a universe where time is like a rubber band; it has no beginning and no end, as it continues forever in a closed loop. So basically after a loop, then time returns to zero. But is it possible that we are living in a closed loop?
As unbelievable as it might sound, this is actually a well known solution to the GR equations. If you do a Google search on "Godel's universe", you should find some references to get started on this most interesting topic.
 
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I don't think so. If it is possible then the we should not have nuclear disintegration or if we do then the lost elements must be regenrated in there.
But it might be possible in future, if sometime universe reversed its expansion then we might notice that it could be possible.
 
Would it be possible to escape from a closed loop?
 
  • #10
Well [strapping on my crash helmet] perhaps once this universe thins out enough, quantum fluctuations will cause another big bang.
 
  • #11
chronos, what do you mean by the universe "thins out enough"?
 
  • #12
Aki said:
chronos, what do you mean by the universe "thins out enough"?
Perhaps when the energy density [entropy] of the observable universe drops to a certain threshold, another big bang will occur. That notion is inspired by quantum mechanics, which insists upon a state of flux. A universe with too much gravity will immediately collapse. A universe with a gravitational force too weak will fly apart before structures have a chance to form. My thinking is this universe is a perfect balance between the two states. I perceive the universe must be perfectly balanced to endure as long as it has. It is also appears it took many cycles to find one that lasted this long.
 

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