Growing Block Universe: SR & GR Compatibility

In summary, the Growing Block Universe theory is a philosophical interpretation of time that suggests the past and present are fixed, but the future is constantly being added to the universe. It is compatible with both Special Relativity and General Relativity and is considered a more intuitive and elegant explanation of time. However, there is currently no empirical evidence to support this theory, and it has faced objections for its implications on free will and energy conservation. The theory challenges traditional notions of time and raises questions about causality, free will, and the role of consciousness in shaping the universe.
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Descartz2000
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Is the Growing Block Universe theory compatible with SR an GR?
 
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Growing block universe implies a single "true" definition of simultaneity, so this would only be compatible with SR and GR if you treat it as a purely metaphysical claim and agree that absolutely no physical experiment could determine what the metaphysically "true" definition of simultaneity actually was.
 

Related to Growing Block Universe: SR & GR Compatibility

1. What is the Growing Block Universe theory?

The Growing Block Universe theory is a philosophical interpretation of the nature of time that posits that the past and present are fixed, but the future is not yet determined. This theory suggests that new events are constantly being added to the universe, making it "grow" over time.

2. How does the Growing Block Universe theory relate to Special Relativity and General Relativity?

The Growing Block Universe theory is compatible with both Special Relativity (SR) and General Relativity (GR). SR states that time is relative and can be experienced differently depending on one's frame of reference. GR describes how gravity affects the curvature of spacetime. The Growing Block Universe theory incorporates these concepts by allowing for the possibility of different "nows" in different reference frames and the idea that gravity can cause the addition of new events to the universe.

3. What evidence supports the Growing Block Universe theory?

There is currently no empirical evidence that definitively supports the Growing Block Universe theory. However, some physicists and philosophers argue that the theory is a more intuitive and elegant explanation of the nature of time compared to other theories, such as the Block Universe theory or the Presentism theory.

4. Are there any objections or criticisms to the Growing Block Universe theory?

Some critics argue that the theory is incompatible with the concept of free will, as it suggests that the future is already determined. Others argue that the idea of constantly adding new events to the universe violates the principle of conservation of energy. Additionally, the theory has been criticized for lacking empirical evidence and being purely speculative.

5. How does the Growing Block Universe theory impact our understanding of the universe?

The Growing Block Universe theory challenges traditional notions of time and suggests that the future is not predetermined, but rather constantly being created. This idea has implications for our understanding of causality, free will, and the nature of existence. It also raises questions about the possibility of time travel and the role of consciousness in shaping the universe.

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