Exploring the Paradox of Our War-Driven Multiverse
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Understanding the War Universe
In the words of William S. Burroughs, “This is a war universe. War all the time. That is its nature.” While we can trace the history of the cosmos to a moment just after the Big Bang, understanding what preceded it remains elusive. Our current technology cannot generate the extreme conditions necessary to explore that first nanosecond.
The universe we inhabit is characterized by ‘fundamental constants’—around 30 of them that dictate the sizes and strengths of various parameters, such as particle masses and gravitational forces. These values are precisely aligned to allow the development of complex systems like stars, planets, and eventually, life itself.
However, the notion of a singular Big Bang is increasingly questioned. String Theory suggests that everything consists of tiny, vibrating strings, compactified in such a way that, upon cooling, they operate under different natural laws. This leads us to ponder: why should there only be one Big Bang? The uniqueness of such an event seems implausible, as the adage goes, “One swallow does not a summer make.” If multiple Big Bangs occurred, it stands to reason that at least one universe capable of sustaining life would emerge.
The Multiverse of Deities
Interestingly, even the concept of God is not unique; various cultures have their own gods and goddesses, each associated with creation. The Judeo-Christian God, while interpreted as singular by believers, shares traits with deities from earlier civilizations. The idea that the Judeo-Christian God is linked to the Big Bang reflects a pre-scientific mindset attempting to fill gaps in our understanding with divine narratives.
Georges Lemaître, a Catholic priest, contributed to the Big Bang theory, asserting that his religious beliefs and scientific pursuits were not at odds. This duality illustrates the complexity of human understanding, where science and faith may coexist, albeit awkwardly.
Though many, including scientists, might suggest that a divine entity initiated the cosmos, I remain skeptical. The concept of a multiverse intrigues me; it proposes that our local “laws of nature” might simply be by-laws governing our specific cosmic reality, with countless other universes existing alongside ours.
The Fragility of Existence
Which multiverse do we occupy? Our universe’s fundamental constants are finely tuned to permit life, yet humanity’s actions are leading to a climate catastrophe. In less than 200 years—an instant in cosmic terms—we have endangered our existence and the survival of numerous species. The chaotic nature of our universe, as Burroughs describes, could regress humanity to a primitive state, leaving behind tales of hubris.
The extinction of the dinosaurs millions of years ago paved the way for primates to evolve into Homo sapiens. Yet, these earlier creatures posed no climate threat. It is paradoxical that the very constants enabling life are being undermined by humanity’s penchant for conflict and competition.
Games and War: An Unholy Alliance
The connection between games and warfare is troubling. The military loves to simulate war scenarios, and gaming culture often glorifies violence. This intersection of entertainment and conflict raises questions about our perception of reality. As Baudrillard suggested, the mediated nature of war makes it difficult to distinguish between reality and simulation.
Zuckerberg's concept of a meta-multiverse might just reflect an existing multiverse, where we play and create within layers of reality. The irony is that, as we design these virtual realms, we may lose sight of what is genuine.
As we navigate these meta-multiverses, the boundaries between reality and simulation blur. If consciousness persists beyond death, could we awaken in another meta-multiverse? Is this new existence one of bliss or torment? The distinction may become irrelevant.
The Game of Existence
If a higher power exists, it does not appear to play by the rules of chance; rather, it appears to engage in a game. The multiverse resembles a video game, each universe distinct yet sharing the same console. The conclusion of this game is likely predictable: a cycle of conflict yielding sequels ad infinitum—welcome to the War Universe.
In the first video, titled "The Multiverse is real. Just not in the way you think it is," Sean Carroll explores the complexities of the multiverse concept, challenging our understanding of reality and existence.
The second video, "Are We Living in a Parallel Universe After Death?" examines the intriguing idea of parallel universes and how they may relate to our existence beyond death.