Where did the past go?

Answer 1

I used to imagine such questions were an exercise in meaningless rhetoric, but I've begun lately to have a new appreciation for the concept of time.

As physical beings, we are largely constrained to the 4 basic dimensions (3 spatial dimensions, and time); however there are (depending on the cosmologist with whom you happen to be speaking) 6 or 7 additional dimensions. Unfortunately, scientists can't agree on either (a) the number of dimensions or (b) the properties of the commonly-acknowledged dimensions.

Although we ordinarily perceive time as a forward-moving phenomenon, I think time works in both directions (or, technically, in all directions). In other words, the past is an imaginary construct, as is the future: neither really exists, and yet both exist simultaneously with the present.

I'm not really sure how to articulate that so that it's easier to appreciate; I do recognize that it's an exceedingly difficult concept to understand. It may help to imagine that the past is a trans-dimensional concept (as is the future): if we were trans-dimensional beings, we could move instantly backwards and forwards through "time," without causing any catastrophic "causality loops" or other logic problems.

In essence, infinite possibilities exist at every time, and every time exists simultaneously: in our current form, we're merely able to perceive only one possibility at a time (which, by definition, is the present) -- and that binds us in this temporal web.

Even our memories are delimited by earlier perceptions of the then-present, and we are able to make logical and predictive statements regarding the now-future; however, the then-present we each percieve is the now-past for only one of infinite possibilities; the same applies for the now-present and for the foreseeable now-future.

All the other possibilities simultaneously exist, but they are outside our range of perception.

So, whenever someone says to you "Remember the future," you can now respond, "I already did."

Answer 2

According to some beliefs the past did not go anywhere, they exist at the same time together with the future and the present. It is a very interesting and refreshing concept. I wish I could find a nice link for you, I am sure there are lots.

Answer 3

Time is a mathematical construct used to aid in pattern seeking. Your question is phrased in a language that can make the concept of time more confusing. Only mathematics can really decribe time.

That's my own opinion of it.

A very good discussion of the nature of time can be read here:

philosophy2.ucsd.edu/~callende/index_files/Time%20in%20Physics.doc

Answer 4

It left you and me. That's why it is known as "past"

Answer 5

yes, it will go into your memory and it's not like the "back to the future" film, that's bullshit. and it's not recorded like in the film tape where you can reverse it whenever you want it.

Answer 6

look in a history book

Answer 7

This is very sad and poignant...unable to answer due to tearfulness

Answer 8

Not sure, but I wish it would come back!

Answer 9

it became a memory

Answer 10

It's right behind you.