Exploring Reality: Does Block Universe Mean Time & Motion Are Illusions?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a block universe and whether time and motion can be considered illusions. However, this discussion is often considered unproductive as it cannot be proven or disproven through experiments and does not fall within the realm of science. The moderators typically shut down discussions on this topic as it is not well-researched, does not pertain to physics, and is not related to particle physics.
  • #1
enquirealways
26
0
Does block universe mean that time and motion are illusions?
 
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  • #2
Uh ... I'll bet you moved between the time you started that sentence and the time you finished it, now didn't you.
 
  • #3
phinds said:
Uh ... I'll bet you moved between the time you started that sentence and the time you finished it, now didn't you.

Well, can't all the activity be an illusion. Our universe could be a huge pile of time capsules.
 
  • #4
enquirealways said:
Well, can't all the activity be an illusion. Our universe could be a huge pile of time capsules.

Yes, but no experiment can even in principle distinguish between that model of the universe and one in which time and motion are not illusions. Thus, the discussion tends to be sterile: it might be so, it might not be, we can't tell which it is and it doesn't make any difference either way.

It doesn't yield falsifiable predictions so it's not science, and the moderators generally shut down discussions of block universe if they don't stop at this point on their own.
 
  • #5
Nugatory said:
Yes, but no experiment can even in principle distinguish between that model of the universe and one in which time and motion are not illusions. Thus, the discussion tends to be sterile: it might be so, it might not be, we can't tell which it is and it doesn't make any difference either way.

It doesn't yield falsifiable predictions so it's not science, and the moderators generally shut down discussions of block universe if they don't stop at this point on their own.


Why not send it to beyond the standard model.
 
  • #6
enquirealways said:
Why not send it to beyond the standard model.

That's for "discussion of the scientific content of well-researched models of physics beyond the Standard Model [of elementary particle physics]", to quote the forum stickies. Block universe speculation fails on the grounds of not being well-researched, not being a model of physics, and not being about particle physics.
 
  • #7
"Block universe" is just another description of exactly the same thing. This is not a physics question, it's more like "what is your favorite color?" - it is pointless to discuss that, so I closed the thread.
 

Related to Exploring Reality: Does Block Universe Mean Time & Motion Are Illusions?

1. What is the Block Universe theory?

The Block Universe theory, also known as Eternalism or the Block View of Time, is a concept in philosophy and theoretical physics that suggests that time and space exist as a continuous, four-dimensional block where all events, past, present, and future, are equally real.

2. How does the Block Universe theory relate to the concept of time and motion being illusions?

The Block Universe theory proposes that since all events, including those we perceive as past, present, and future, are equally real and exist simultaneously in the four-dimensional block, the passage of time and the perception of motion are subjective illusions created by our limited human perspective.

3. What evidence supports the Block Universe theory?

There is no conclusive scientific evidence that definitively proves the Block Universe theory. However, some physicists point to the Einstein's theory of relativity, which suggests that time is relative and can be influenced by the observer's frame of reference, as support for this concept.

4. How does the Block Universe theory impact our understanding of free will?

The Block Universe theory has implications for the concept of free will, as it suggests that all events, including our choices and actions, are pre-determined and exist simultaneously in the four-dimensional block. This challenges the traditional idea of free will and raises questions about the nature of causality and determinism.

5. Is there any criticism of the Block Universe theory?

Yes, there are several criticisms of the Block Universe theory. Some philosophers argue that it undermines the concept of individual agency and personal responsibility, while others question how consciousness and the subjective experience of time fit into this theory. Additionally, some scientists argue that the Block Universe theory is not compatible with quantum mechanics, which suggests that the future is not predetermined.

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