Block Universe Theory: Implications & Multiverse

In summary, the Block Universe Theory states that past, present, and future all exist simultaneously and the universe is unchanging. This raises questions about the concept of movement and the idea of a mathematical structure, as proposed by Max Tegmark. The block universe is often compared to a series of 3D slices, with atoms being 4D structures. Some explanations suggest that it may be possible to see the past and future by leaving the block, but this is not considered a realistic possibility.
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Physicuser
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The Block Universe Theory, based on Einstein's Relativity, says that past, present and future exist at the same "time", the universe is static, eternal, and things doesn't change, movement is an ilusion because you have memories from the past. But if the universe don't evolve does this imply that is a mathematical structure like Max Tegmark claims?

How is related this view with the idea of multiverse?

I don't understand the concept very well. In BU (and Relativity), the 4D spacetime is supposed to be a lot of unrelated 3D slices like photograms, and the atoms of one slice are not the same than the previous, or are the atoms "expanded" through the 4th dimension (and are the same in distint places)?
 
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  • #2
Physicuser said:
But if the universe don't evolve does this imply that is a mathematical structure like Max Tegmark claims?
No. Those are independent hypotheses.

Many scientists take the block universe seriously. I think only one scientist takes the mathematical universe idea seriously.
 
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  • #3
Physicuser said:
I don't understand the concept very well. In BU (and Relativity), the 4D spacetime is supposed to be a lot of unrelated 3D slices like photograms, and the atoms of one slice are not the same than the previous, or are the atoms "expanded" through the 4th dimension (and are the same in distint places)?
In the block universe an atom is a 4d structure, like a pipe. The thing you are thinking of as "an atom, now" is a 3d cross-section of the "pipe".
 
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In some explanations of the concept I read it's said that if you could get out the block (through another dimension or something like that) you could "see" the past and the future. I don't know if this is just a way of explain how the block is or if it's considered a real possibility. What do you think?
 
  • #5
Physicuser said:
In some explanations
Please provide a specific reference.
 
  • #7
Physicuser said:
I don't know if this is just a way of explain how the block is or if it's considered a real possibility. What do you think?
Physicuser said:
It was in some media coverage like this:

https://plus.maths.org/content/what-block-time
It is not considered a real possibility. That was primarily a pop-sci mathematical reference talking about the math. Mathematicians frequently do that sort of thing with no known physical application.
 

1. What is the Block Universe Theory?

The Block Universe Theory, also known as the "Eternalism" or "Four-Dimensionalism" theory, is a philosophical and scientific concept that suggests that time and space are not linear, but rather all events in the past, present, and future exist simultaneously as a static block. This means that the past, present, and future are all equally real and exist in a timeless and unchanging "block" of spacetime.

2. What are the implications of the Block Universe Theory?

The implications of the Block Universe Theory are far-reaching and can be debated among philosophers and scientists. Some implications include the idea that free will may be an illusion, as all events are predetermined and already exist. It also challenges our traditional understanding of causality, as events in the past can influence events in the future and vice versa. Additionally, it raises questions about the nature of time and our perception of it.

3. How does the Block Universe Theory relate to the concept of a Multiverse?

The Block Universe Theory and the Multiverse theory are often discussed together as they both challenge our traditional understanding of time and space. The Multiverse theory suggests that there are multiple universes or parallel realities that exist alongside our own. The Block Universe Theory supports this idea by suggesting that all possible past, present, and future events exist simultaneously, including those in other universes.

4. Is there any scientific evidence to support the Block Universe Theory?

The Block Universe Theory is a philosophical concept that is still debated among scientists and philosophers. While there is no definitive scientific evidence to support the theory, some physicists have suggested that certain principles of quantum mechanics, such as the concept of superposition, may align with the idea of a block universe. However, more research and evidence are needed to fully support the theory.

5. What are some criticisms of the Block Universe Theory?

One of the main criticisms of the Block Universe Theory is that it goes against our everyday experience and perception of time. It also raises questions about the role of consciousness and the possibility of changing the future if all events are predetermined. Additionally, some argue that the theory does not fully explain the existence of time and the arrow of time, which is the idea that time only moves forward and not backward.

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