eh

I've been reading up on the ekpyrotic theory put forth in regards to the creation of the universe. If I'm understanding things correctly, this seems to bring up some interesting ideas.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't this theory say that even after our universe is long swallowed up in darkness, another big bang is possible? To take it a step further, could there bu an unlimited number of universe creations in the past and future? In other words, does this mean the cycle of the creation and eventual death of the universe will go on forever?

If so, what are your thoughts about such an eternal universe? Even if the odds against life are high, an eternal universe ought to eventually produce beings very similar to humans. I've been wondering if in say, googles of universes from now, there could be an earth like planet with beings who look and act exactly like modern day humans do, complete with creationists, church, and faith healers. Could it be possible that an earth identical to ours in every way could arise if the universe is truely eternal in the way the theory describes?

Francois Tremblay

Well, all these talks of infinite random universes are nice I suppose, but the problem is that by definition we could not know about such things anyway (since "universe" designates all there is, from our point of view anyway, not to mention that any actualized infinity is meaningless). Therefore one cannot rationally discuss or use such concepts, as per Occam's Razor.

As for imagining what it would be like, well, if infinity could have any meaning at all I suppose it just could happen. However I prefer if there was some kind of fail-safe to prevent religion from existing again... I think we had enough this time around.

[ January 28, 2002: Message edited by: Franc28 ]</p>

ecco

That concept also leads to the possibility of a universe where everyone is a sensible atheist…sign me up!

eh

Well if the theory is true, it would seem like an unlimited number of worlds would be possible. Impossible for us mere mortals to think about, but interesting to discuss anyway.

Does no one else have any thoughts on this? It sounds like an exciting theory, especially compared to the eternal darkness alternative.

Francois Tremblay

Why wouldn't all these other universes be dark too ? Do you think it's possible to have laws of nature such that space is any other colour ?

(I'm also not sure how this is an exciting theory since, once again, we can never know these hypothetical universes)

eh

Oh, what I meant was that opposed to the universe remaining dark and boring forever after all the stars die out, the possibility remains for a new wave of galaxies (and maybe life) at some point in the future.

But you're right, there would be no way for us to get a glimpse at such a new visible universe if it existed. Still, I find the idea to be fascinating speculation anyway.

Francois Tremblay

I admit it's interesting. If it was true, do you suppose we could find a way to encode information so that scientists in the next wave could find it out ? If so, what would you put in there ?

If there could be an infinite number of those universes, then I suppose I am an object of worship in one of them. I was just born in the wrong universe

[ January 30, 2002: Message edited by: Franc28 ]</p>

eh

Well as I understand it, if those branes collide again, everything in the current universe will be completely destroyed. So we probably could leave a message behind for the next wave of intelligent life. If we could somehow do it, I can think of nothing better than to leave some of the wisdom from the Monty Python movies for these new lifeforms to find.