Emergent mess of probabilities there will always be uncanny

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the philosophical implications of coincidences and their relationship to causation, particularly through the lens of Einstein's block universe and Hume's epistemology. Participants argue that traditional notions of cause and effect may be misleading, suggesting that these concepts are merely patterns rather than necessary connections. The conversation also touches on the concept of synchronicity, emphasizing its distinction from causation and its potential for generating new avenues of speculation. Ultimately, the dialogue highlights the complexity of understanding time, causation, and the nature of reality.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's block universe theory
  • Familiarity with David Hume's epistemology and views on causation
  • Knowledge of the concept of synchronicity and its philosophical implications
  • Basic grasp of metaphysics and its distinction from epistemology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Einstein's block universe and its implications for time and causation
  • Study David Hume's theories on causation and induction
  • Explore the philosophical concept of synchronicity and its critiques
  • Investigate the relationship between patterns in nature and human perception
USEFUL FOR

Philosophers, students of metaphysics, and anyone interested in the intersection of science and philosophy, particularly regarding causation and the nature of reality.

  • #31


I realize that I am getting off topic, but this thread reminds me of a quote from Stephen Hawking, “What is it that breathes fire into the equations and makes a universe for them to describe?” Anyway, I would be glad to go wherever this train of thought leads. However, I will get back on topic. Perhaps, I will start a thread of my own! I'm new at this!
 
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  • #32


Gwilim said:
Are coincidences meaningful?

Meaningful is the tricky word in this question.

From Wikipedia:
A non-linguistic meaning is an actual or possible derivation from sentence, which is not associated with signs that have any original or primary intent of communication.


One would have to judge the value of the "derivation" they obtain from the coincidence.

Synchronicity (FNORD) in my personal research is often a way to derive new avenues of speculation. I also tend to pay attention to trains of thought that seem to involve a high occurrence of synchronicity.

Since the imagination plays an important role in relating ideas to one another an openess to the idea of Synchronicity may aid the reseacher but if not taken with a grain of salt it may derail the reseacher as well.

When, in my opinion, you become obsessed with a lucky object based on coincidences is a simple example of a valueless "derivation" associated with signs.
 

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