Could the universe really be conscious?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the idea that the universe may possess consciousness and is structured similarly to a brain. Participants explore the validity of this theory, questioning its scientific basis and relevance within the context of Physics Forums.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants reference an article suggesting that the universe could be conscious, prompting questions about the validity of this theory.
  • One participant expresses skepticism, noting the lack of evidence supporting the idea and emphasizing that it remains speculative.
  • Concerns are raised about the comparison between brain function and the universe, particularly regarding the speed of signal transmission in brains versus the delays in cosmic networks.
  • Another participant shares their personal disbelief in the theory, indicating that it does not make sense to them.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express skepticism about the theory of a conscious universe, with no consensus on its validity. Multiple competing views remain, particularly regarding the nature of evidence and the relevance of the theory.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the absence of empirical evidence and the speculative nature of the claims made in the referenced article. There are unresolved questions regarding the definitions of consciousness and the mechanisms by which it might be attributed to the universe.

BadgerBadger92
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TL;DR
Some people think the universe be conscious. Is this a valid theory?
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BadgerBadger92 said:
Summary: Some people think the universe be conscious. Is this a valid theory?

https://time.com/6208174/maybe-the-...itorial&utm_term=ideas_books&linkId=178670105

I was reading on Time today that some scientists believe the universe is conscious and is built like a brain. Is this a valid theory or something not valid?
I doubt that you will get much joy out of that question on PF. That idea has no evidence to support it so it's only speculation and is not part of PF's brief.

Quote some actual evidence and you may get a better response. I read, in that reference of yours, the words "too big to think" and that says it all. One massive objection that I would have about claiming parallels between brains and the universe would be that a brain works by communication between the cells. The passage of signals within the brain takes a fraction of a second; that's a minute proportion of the age of the brain. Otoh, any network carrying signals around the universe has a delay that corresponds to the sort of time that the universe has taken to be formed. That makes it a bit of a non-starter, I think.
 
I thought it was bull too. I just wanted to see what you think. Didn’t make much sense to me
 
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BadgerBadger92 said:
I was reading on Time today
Not a valid source.

BadgerBadger92 said:
I thought it was bull too.
Not a valid reason for posting a thread.

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