Symmetry of the Universe: Why Doesn't 0 = cba?

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The discussion centers on the lack of perfect symmetry in the universe, questioning why it doesn't resemble a symmetrical arrangement like "abc 0 cba." Participants argue that while the universe appears homogeneous and isotropic on large scales, this symmetry breaks down on smaller scales, allowing for the existence of structures. The concept of symmetry is tied to perspective and scale, indicating that complete symmetry would contradict the formation of diverse cosmic structures. The anthropic principle suggests that a perfectly symmetric universe is not feasible, as it would eliminate the conditions necessary for life. Ultimately, the conversation invites deeper exploration into the nature of symmetry in the universe.
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Why is it that our universe isn't perfectly symmetric? To demonstrate imagine that the 0 is the center of the universe:

abc 0 cba

Why doesn't the universe look like this?

Why isn't there another me on the equally opposite side of the universe doing the same thing as I am right now?
 
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Symmetry is a matter of perspective. If the universe is, as it appears to be, homogeneous and isotropic that sounds pretty symmetric to me.
 
Chronos said:
Symmetry is a matter of perspective. If the universe is, as it appears to be, homogeneous and isotropic that sounds pretty symmetric to me.

Symmetry is also related to scale. As Chronos says, the universe is homogeneous and isotropic on scales ~100Mpc, and definitely not so on scales smaller than that. If the universe were completely homogeneous and isotropic, it would be impossible for any kind of structure to exist, so an anthropic argument will lead to the conclusion that the universe cannot be completely symmetric.
 
toph.roshi said:
Why is it that our universe isn't perfectly symmetric? To demonstrate imagine that the 0 is the center of the universe:

abc 0 cba

Why doesn't the universe look like this?
Why do you think it should? Please elaborate.

(Sounds like a question involving a Newtonian Deterministic Universe)
 

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