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hejs
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Hi! Do you know how theories in Metaphysics explain the expanding and accelerating universe? Intuitively i think of expanding consciousness but then what is consciousness? The "thing" that i observe my own thoughts with? 
Expanding Universe: Metaphysics & Consciousness
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In summary, The conversation discusses the relationship between theories in Metaphysics and the concept of expanding consciousness. However, it is noted that the two are not necessarily connected and that the idea of expanding consciousness is often used metaphorically. The conversation also touches on the question of what consciousness actually is, with the suggestion that it is interconnected with thoughts and the act of observing them, rather than being a separate entity.
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Les Sleeth
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hejs said:Hi! Do you know how theories in Metaphysics explain the expanding and accelerating universe? Intuitively i think of expanding consciousness but then what is consciousness? The "thing" that i observe my own thoughts with?
Hi hejs, I think your question is more of a physics thing than metaphysics. If you haven't already you might read up on the cosmological constant and dark energy for more information.
Because the word "expand" has been used with both the universe and consciousness doesn't mean there is any relationship between them. If you think about how consciousness expands, for example, it doesn't seem to be an automatic thing like what's happening with the universe. Also, sometimes "expand" is used metaphorically when applied to consciousness, and so isn't really meant to describe actual spatial extension.
As for what consciousness is, good luck figuring that out! You can find a lot of threads here on that subject. You might try reading a few to get up to speed on what's been discussed already.
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moving finger
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Thinking of consciousness in this way leads to the "Cartesian Theatre" illusion, that there is a separate "agent" which is having well-defined "thoughts" and which can "observe" those "thoughts".hejs said:Hi! Do you know how theories in Metaphysics explain the expanding and accelerating universe? Intuitively i think of expanding consciousness but then what is consciousness? The "thing" that i observe my own thoughts with?
I think you'll find (perhaps after much more reading and introspection) that a more coherent view of consciousness (one which does not lead to cartesian dualism, metaphysical qualia or other such weird ideas) is that the "thing" and the "I" and the "observing" and the "thoughts" are all bound up inextricably as one series of complex neurophysiological states, it makes no sense to suggest there is an "I" which is separate from the "thoughts" and the "act of observing the thoughts" - it is all one.
Best Regards
MF
1. What is the expanding universe theory and how does it relate to metaphysics?
The expanding universe theory is a scientific concept that describes the continuous growth and expansion of the universe since its origin in the Big Bang. The theory suggests that the universe is constantly expanding and that all matter and energy are moving away from each other. This idea has sparked discussions in the field of metaphysics, as it raises questions about the nature of reality and the existence of a higher power or consciousness that may have initiated the expansion.
2. How does the concept of consciousness tie into the expanding universe theory?
Consciousness is a state of awareness that many scientists and philosophers believe to be a fundamental aspect of the universe. The expanding universe theory suggests that everything in the universe is in a state of constant change and evolution, including consciousness. Some theories propose that the expansion of the universe may be linked to the expansion and evolution of consciousness.
3. Is there any evidence to support the idea of a conscious universe?
While there is currently no scientific evidence to prove the existence of a conscious universe, some scientists and philosophers argue that the complexity and interconnectedness of the universe hint at a higher level of consciousness. This idea is still highly debated and remains a topic of speculation and exploration in the scientific and philosophical communities.
4. Can the expanding universe theory be explained by other metaphysical concepts?
Some metaphysical concepts, such as the idea of a multiverse or parallel universes, have been proposed as alternative explanations for the expanding universe theory. These concepts suggest that our universe is just one of many and that the expansion could be a result of interactions between different universes. However, these ideas are still speculative and have not been scientifically proven.
5. How does the expanding universe theory impact our understanding of the nature of reality?
The expanding universe theory challenges our traditional understanding of reality and raises questions about the nature of existence. It suggests that the universe is constantly changing and evolving, and that our understanding of reality may be limited by our perception and knowledge. This concept has sparked debates and discussions in both the scientific and philosophical communities about the true nature of reality.
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