The values of physical constants are accidental designers shaping the universe and evolution of consciousness.
Summary: Here we introspect how physical constants shape the universe’s structure, stability, and complexity. We question specific values of physical constants and speculate about alternate universes with different values. We delve into pondering whether alternate universes could host unique forms of life, consciousness, and philosophical inquiry.
The universe, as vast and full of surprises as it is (ask Captain Kirk if you don’t believe it), operates under the rule of a few physical constants. These constants — like the speed of light, the gravitational constant, and Planck’s constant — form the scaffolding upon which the universe’s traits are built. Their significance extends far beyond the formulas they populate (e.g., e=mc²); they are the architects of the cosmos, enabling stable structures that give rise to galaxies, stars, planets, and, ultimately, conscious beings like us.
Given their critical role in shaping the universe, a fundamental question arises: Why are these constants set as they are and not otherwise? Consider, for example, the fine-structure constant, which governs the strength of electromagnetic interactions. Were it even slightly different, the fabric of atoms could unravel, rendering life as we know impossible. In this way, certain values of physical constants appear essential for stability of atoms— a prerequisite for a universe where complexity has time to evolve.
One might imagine a continuum of possible universes, each defined by different values of these constants. In some, the gravitational constant might be marginally stronger, causing stars to burn out too quickly for life to evolve. Conversely, if it were slightly weaker, random fluctuations might fail to coalesce into stable structures. In others, the electromagnetic force could be too weak to form complex molecules. Stable universes — where matter coheres and endures — may occupy but a sliver of the vast landscape of possibilities, a narrow window through which existence emerges.
If we set aside the anthropic bias, the contemplation of physical constants and their consequences becomes even more intriguing. Could there be other universes where these constants differ? If so, might they host entirely alien forms of stability, structure, and even consciousness? Perhaps beings in such a universe, composed not of the matter we are familiar with — such as air, water, or solids — but of something else (e.g., plasma) and ponder the same mysteries as we do. They might marvel at their own “constants,” wondering why their values favor existence and the patterns they observe. The question of the values of physical constants transcends the peculiarities of any single universe. It is a universal question and will be asked by any form of existence capable of reflection and curiosity about its own origins.
In grappling with these mysteries, such beings may have developed their own religions, gods, or philosophies. But perhaps, their conceptual frameworks about life’s foundations and meaning are the same as ours, differing only in the specifics.
In this sense, physical constants are accidental designers, determining the envelope of trajectories within which a universe can evolve. We just happen to exist in one of these trajectories. Having gained consciousness, we now look back and dare to question the reasons for our existence.
This brings us to an old thought experiment: If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? Similarly, if a universe exists with values of constants that do not allow for stable structures or enough time for consciousness to evolve, does such a universe ever get observed or explored, or for that matter, exists? In such a world, would questions about the need for a designer even arise?
Ciao, and thanks for reading.
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