Is there any evidence that proves alternate universes exist? I watch allot of Discovery channel, and whenever a show comes on about physics, they always bring up the theory that every decision that we make that has multiple outcomes creates multiple universes, one for each outcome. This seems flawed to me, because just now I decided not to hit myself in the head with a brick, is there really a universe out there where I did? If it seems like I'm asking allot of dumb questions it's because I have no concept whatsoever on how physics work, but I'm very interested in it.
2007-01-14 16:26:06 · 11 answers · asked by jedi1josh 5 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Although the interpretations are debated, there is experimental evidence to suggest that there are parallel universes - and here I mean the branching types of similar (if the branched recently) universes shown on such TV shows as sliders (who get all the science wrong but never mind) its basically because of the old 2 slit diffraction experiment. Photons behave like waves when you're only observing the shadows, however if you send them through one at a time, the wave pattern still builds up - how? It seems that an individual photon goes through both slits (though it does NOT split up or divide) and interferes with itself - the most logical explanation believe it or not is that its interfering with photons in other universes and vice versa. Its hard for our mind to grasp trillions upon trillions of universes being created every microsecond but our common sense would be a terrible guide while learning quantum mechanics - Most objections seem to be based on the basic principle that they dont like the idea and prefer a different interpretation - one critic said the theory was 'cheap on assumptions, expensive on universes'.
There are also the theorised higher dimensions of superstring theory - in my view these though more limited are far more tentative and unlikely - string theory has yet to get the tiniest amount of physical data to back up any of its assertions - if it cant be tests its philosophy or mathematics - not physics. I'd recommend reading 'hyperspace' by Michio Kaku, 'In Search of Shrödinger's Cat' by John Gribbin or 'The Elegant Universe' by Brian Greene.
2007-01-15 00:03:49 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
There is evidence mathmatically. Really, a person can not understand more than 3 (or 4) dimentions, without understanding all (or most) of the math involved with it.
Scientists tend to "believe" something because they see irrefutable evidence, or the best explination known for an idea.
2007-01-14 16:45:40 · answer #2 · answered by mikzilla0 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Because, it is a theory, they don't 'believe-in' alternate universes, as a 'FACT', it's just a part of some theories.
Hey, at least the scientists don't try to tell everyone that they're going to a place of 'Eternal-Torment' if they won't entertain the possibility/ies of the existence of alternate universes-! LOL
2007-01-14 16:33:48 · answer #3 · answered by Realistic Viewpoint 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
It's one possible interpretation of quantum mechanics, but really a problem for metaphysics and philosophy... A scientist may have an opinion on this question, but it within itself is not within the scope of what science seeks to answer.
2007-01-14 17:37:04 · answer #4 · answered by tomz17 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is because of quantum theory. Universes that are realized are the ones that collapse the probability wavex. The other Universes are not observed so not collapsed, however due to flux, these are collapsed in Alternate Universes.
2007-01-14 20:59:26 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
I don't think many of them believe there are many universes, they just throw that out there as a possible answer to the question of quantum fluctuations. Not so much human decisions, as quantum ones. (read up on Schroedinger's cat)
2007-01-14 16:30:12 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wouldn't it be rather egotistical to believe that we're the only ones that exist? Possibly the only planet that sustains life in this solar system, but what about all the others? It's just common sense.
2007-01-14 16:57:30 · answer #7 · answered by smcdevitt2001 5 · 2⤊ 3⤋
I would recommend renting, purchasing a film called, "What the Bleep do We Know?! (For too many reasons to list.)
Here is their website: http://www.whatthebleep.com/
2007-01-14 18:23:43 · answer #8 · answered by sunshaun 2 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Alternate universe nonsense is like evolution.......THEORIES that still remain unproven in over 150 years. Usually within 25 years, if a theory cannot be proven it is thrashed.
Mutation within species = Fact
Evolution as described in textbooks (fairytales) = fiction
2007-01-14 16:36:21 · answer #9 · answered by zoomat4580 4 · 0⤊ 5⤋
I was going to answer but got distracted because of my fascination with ganguro girls. Sorry. (see answer #1)
2007-01-14 16:37:03 · answer #10 · answered by Wurm™ 6 · 2⤊ 3⤋