Does retrocausality only apply to subatomic particles?

In summary, the conversation explores the concept of retrocausality and its potential impact on history. The question is raised whether historical events would change if the future had an effect on the past, and whether our memories could be altered in the process. However, it is noted that retrocausality has not been observed and there is no mainstream reference or evidence to support it. The conversation concludes by stating that without a way to test for retrocausality, it remains a speculative concept.
  • #1
question99
5
0
It seems that historical events are the same every day. If the future affected the past wouldn't history books change everyday by themselves? Is it possible that history does actually change but we don't realize it because our memories change too?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What do you mean by "retrocausality"? Can you give a mainstream reference (textbook or peer-reviewed paper) that describes the concept you are referring to?
 
  • #3
There are a great many things that are "possible", but in the sciences, we can only make real progress on questions that can be answered experimentally. How could you tell if the world worked this way?
If there's no way of telling, then there is no way of knowing.
 
  • #4
question99 said:
It seems that historical events are the same every day. If the future affected the past wouldn't history books change everyday by themselves? Is it possible that history does actually change but we don't realize it because our memories change too?
That sounds right, other than the fact that retrocausality does not explain anything which ever has been observed.
 

Related to Does retrocausality only apply to subatomic particles?

1. What is retrocausality?

Retrocausality is the idea that the future can influence the past. In other words, an effect can occur before its cause.

2. Does retrocausality only apply to subatomic particles?

Currently, retrocausality is a theoretical concept that is being explored in the realm of quantum mechanics. It is believed to potentially apply to subatomic particles, but more research is needed to fully understand its implications.

3. How does retrocausality fit into the laws of physics?

Retrocausality challenges traditional notions of causality, which state that an effect can only occur after its cause. It is currently being evaluated and tested within the framework of quantum mechanics, and its place in the laws of physics is still being determined.

4. Can retrocausality be observed or measured?

At this point, retrocausality remains a theoretical concept and has not been observed or measured directly. However, there have been experiments and studies conducted that support the idea of retrocausality in subatomic particles.

5. What are the implications of retrocausality?

If retrocausality is proven to be a valid concept, it would have significant implications for our understanding of the laws of physics and the nature of causality. It could potentially change our understanding of the universe and how events occur in time.

Similar threads

Replies
24
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
4K
Replies
157
Views
12K
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
758
Replies
8
Views
8K
Replies
13
Views
3K
Replies
24
Views
2K
Back
Top