A scientific paper - A Presentist Model of Time: Resolving Inconsistencies in the Block Universe and Growing Block Universe Models

Presentism

Abstract:

This paper challenges the prevailing block universe and growing block universe models of time by highlighting their logical inconsistencies and incompatibility with the concept of a dynamic present moment. We argue that a presentist model, where only the "latest happening events" across the universe constitute reality, offers a more coherent and intuitive framework. This unique set of events, representing the furthest points along the proper time axis from the Big Bang, forms a continuously evolving "now." This model resolves the contradictions inherent in the block universe and growing block universe models while aligning with our experience of time and potentially offering a better framework for integrating relativity and quantum mechanics.

1. Introduction

The nature of time remains one of the most fundamental and perplexing questions in physics and philosophy. The dominant models, the block universe and the growing block universe, present conceptual challenges, particularly in their treatment of the present moment and the implications for a dynamic universe. This paper proposes a presentist model as a more logically consistent and experientially grounded alternative.

2. Limitations of the Block Universe and Growing Block Universe

2.1 Block Universe:

The block universe model posits that all events in the past, present, and future exist equally and statically within a four-dimensional spacetime block. This model faces challenges:

• Finite Proper Time: All events have a finite proper time distance from the Big Bang, contradicting the notion of an infinite future inherent in many block universe interpretations.

• Static Nature: The block universe's static nature conflicts with our experience of time as a flowing present and the dynamic evolution of the universe.

  
  

2.2 Growing Block Universe:

The growing block universe attempts to address the static nature of the block universe by proposing that the block "grows" into the future. However, it still faces issues:

• Persistence of the Past: The growing block model typically assumes the past continues to exist, contradicting the idea of a dynamic present where only the "latest happening events" are occurring.

• Ambiguity of the Present: It struggles to define a clear and unambiguous present moment.

3. The Presentist Model: A Logical Alternative

We propose a presentist model defined by the following:

• Unique Set of Events: At any given moment, there exists a unique set of "latest happening events" across the universe. These events represent the furthest points along the proper time axis from the Big Bang.

• Dynamic Present: Only this unique set of events constitutes the present. Past events are not actively occurring.

• Continuous Evolution:  This set of "latest events" evolves continuously, driven by the laws of physics operating within the present moment.

4. Advantages of the Presentist Model

• Logical Consistency:  Presentism avoids the contradictions inherent in the block universe and growing block universe models by focusing on a dynamic present and acknowledging the finite proper time since the Big Bang.

• Experiential Alignment: It aligns with our intuitive experience of time as a flowing present.

• Definite Present: It provides a clear and unambiguous definition of the present moment.

• Potential for Integration: It may offer a more natural framework for integrating relativity and quantum mechanics, particularly interpretations that emphasize the role of observation and measurement.

5. Addressing Challenges and Future Directions

While promising, presentism faces challenges:

• Explaining Change: Further research is needed to explain how change and persistence of objects occur within a framework where only the present exists.

• Reconciling with Relativity:  Investigating how presentism can be reconciled with the relativistic notion of a relative "now" is crucial.

6. Conclusion

By critically examining the block universe and growing block universe models, we have demonstrated the logical and conceptual advantages of a presentist model of time. This model, grounded in the unique set of "latest happening events," offers a coherent and intuitive framework for understanding time and its role in the universe. Further research is needed to fully explore its implications and address remaining challenges, but presentism presents a compelling alternative that deserves serious consideration in our ongoing quest to understand the nature of time.