Re: NYT (Op-Ed) on Multiverse Theory

From: Howard Marks <howardmarks.domain.name.hidden>
Date: Sun, 13 Apr 2003 16:02:34 -0400

David Deutsch suggests that interference IS direct evidence of the
multiverse, of universes very similar to our own whose photons interact
constructively and destructively with our universe's photons to create
interference patterns. If that is so, then this is "direct evidence". But,
unfortunately, interference can be explained by wave theory -- much more
simply -- in compliance with Occam's Razor, than a near infinitude of
universes that are similar enough to interfere with each other.

As far as the general statement about Occam's Razor, yes, mathematically,
Occam's Razor seems simplest - as what can be simpler than to say that any
event that has a probability of happening - WILL happen with 100% certainty
somewhere in the "multiverse". Really though, is it Occam's Razor to
suggest that entire universes, maybe 15 billion light years across, are
spawned, complete in every detail except one, just to satisfy that something
that has a probability of happening, will happen?

There are others that have other ideas, such as Russell's Essay on Occam,
but, the essence of Occam's Razor is that the simplest physical explanation
is usually best, not mathematically. Mathematics, after all, is but a
representation of physical reality, and should not be confused with "taking
the place of physical reality." Which is where I differ in the Copenhagen
interpretation of QM.
Cheers
Howard

Eric Hawthorne wrote:

> It may be impossible to "access" any direct evidence of the existence
> of a multiverse,
> if for example the theory says there can be no communication between
> universes in
> the multiverse.
>
> However, it could be that a "multiverse theory" is the "occam's razor"
> simplest
> explanation for the way our single universe is.
>
> It could also be that a multiverse theory could be falsifiable (and thus
> of the form of
> a legitimate scientific theory.) The theory could posit that, if things
> are "this particular multiverse way",
> then things must be "this particular way" in every universe. Thus if we
> find evidence that
> things are "not that way" in this universe, we have falsified that
> particular multiverse theory.
>
> --
> 'Here's why the world's in such a mess.
> Our bravest and best are the first to die,
> They fall on the blades to make way for the rest.
> We were so briefly blessed, oh why?'
>
> - Dedicated to Rachel Corrie 1979-2003
Received on Sun Apr 13 2003 - 16:05:10 PDT