Theoretical, Experimental, Simulation, and end of story?

[tampora]

Theoretical, Experimental, Simulation, and... end of story?

I know that this question cannot be answered with any absolute authority, but I'd still like to hear some speculation.

Can there be a next frontier in the tools of science? Previously, we had experiments and theory. Later, simulation was created with the advent of the computer.

In analogy, we thought land, sea, and space was all that exists (heavens notwithstanding). Now, the possibility of alternate dimensions exist.

I don't think it would of been impossible for someone in the pre-computer age to envision what a computer simulation does. In that light, what could possibly follow simulation? It really feels like the end of the road.

 

[mfb]

Simulations in the pre-computer age were made with pen and paper. It is much more work, but everything you can simulate in the computer can be done by hand, too. Of course, if you have a supercomputer available you'll make the simulation "a bit" more complex ;).

 

[dipole]

I agree with mfb, nothing a computer does is new. A computer has made doing extremely tedious and complicated tasks very very easy and efficient, but the fundamental concept is the same as it always was - simulations are simply doing calculations and making predictions based on a particular theory. It always comes down to observation -> theory -> prediction -> observation, perhaps not necessarily in that order.

 

[Kholdstare]

Simulation is nothing but prediction of theory. There's nothing new in it.

 

[LudusRex]

I can understand the sentiment of feeling like we have reached the end of the road in terms of scientific tools. However, it is important to remember that science is a constantly evolving field and there is always room for growth and new discoveries. Just as the computer revolutionized the use of simulations, it is possible that new technologies and advancements could lead to even more powerful and advanced forms of simulation.

Additionally, there are still many unanswered questions and mysteries in the universe that we have yet to fully understand. Theoretical models and experiments are still crucial in helping us make sense of these complexities and could potentially lead to new breakthroughs.

Furthermore, the concept of alternate dimensions is still a theoretical concept and has yet to be fully proven or explored. It is possible that with further advancements in technology and our understanding of the universe, we may be able to delve deeper into this concept and potentially discover new frontiers.

In summary, while it may seem like we have exhausted all the tools of science, there is always the possibility of new advancements and discoveries that could push us even further. As scientists, it is our job to continue pushing the boundaries and exploring the unknown, even if it may seem like the end of the story.