Emergent mess of probabilities there will always be uncanny

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The discussion centers on the nature of coincidences and their potential meaning in life. Participants explore the idea that coincidences may represent a deeper understanding of reality, particularly when viewed through the lens of Einstein's block universe theory, which challenges traditional notions of cause and effect. The conversation highlights that both cause and effect, as well as synchronicity, are patterns within the universe, with neither providing definitive connections between events. The philosophical implications of David Hume's views on causation are referenced, emphasizing that he questioned the existence of necessary connections between events. The term "synchronicity" is debated, with some arguing it should be seen merely as a description of simultaneous events rather than a metaphysical explanation. Ultimately, the dialogue suggests that while coincidences can inspire speculation and new ideas, their true significance is subjective and may depend on individual interpretation and context.
  • #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 occurance 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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