Probability, observers and the multiverse

  • #1
JuneSpring25
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TL;DR Summary
Are there probability arguments for a multiverse based on the existence of conscious observers?
Not sure if I'm putting this in the right place!

I have a question about probability and conscious observers. Aside from other arguments for and against a multiverse, does the idea that a multiverse could contain a vast number of consicous observes make it more likely, given that we find ourselves existing as conscious observers?

I feel like something is wrong with that argument but I can't say why. Supposing life only exists for a relatively brief time in this universe (again leaving aside arguments for how long life might actually continue) does the fact that we are conscious observers make it more likely that we find ourselves conscious and observing because there is a multiverse and there are many / limitless opportunities for conscious life to arise?

Another way of looking at this relates to the Boltzmann Brain problem. Again, I'm not looking at other arguments for and against Boltzman Brains (being a cognitively unstable idea, self-defeating argument etc), I just want to think about it as a thought experiment around probability. The central argument for us being boltzmann brains is that, supposing BBs can exist in an ongoing inflationary scenario, over vast amounts of time there would be vastly more Boltzmann brains than normal observers. However, I've never heard it put the other way round - that because was are conscious observers, this in itself mean we're more likely to be in a universe where BBs exist because then there would vastly more consicous observers?
 
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  • #2
Conscious observers have nothing to do with the multiverse theories. Why do you think they would/should and why would the universe care?
 
  • #3
JuneSpring25 said:
TL;DR Summary: Are there probability arguments for a multiverse based on the existence of conscious observers?

Not sure if I'm putting this in the right place!

I have a question about probability and conscious observers. Aside from other arguments for and against a multiverse, does the idea that a multiverse could contain a vast number of consicous observes make it more likely, given that we find ourselves existing as conscious observers?

I feel like something is wrong with that argument but I can't say why.
I think these probabilistic arguments are deeply flawed. Consider this:

Suppose, for the sake of argument, that 99.9% of chess games played every year are played between two computers - assume there are loads of projects round the world where computers play millions of games against each other every day. If you and I sit down to play a game of chess, does that mean there's a 99.9% chance that we are computers?
 
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Likes phinds
  • #4
If the OP is referring to the 'measurement problem' inherent in theories of quantum interpretations such as Copenhagen that appear to require an observer, the multiverse and many worlds interpretations (MWI) of quantum foundation theories do not require an observer.
 

FAQ: Probability, observers and the multiverse

What is the multiverse theory?

The multiverse theory suggests that our universe is just one of many universes that exist. These universes may have different physical laws, constants, and initial conditions. The idea is that there is a vast, possibly infinite, collection of universes, each constituting a separate "bubble" in a larger multiverse.

How does probability play a role in the multiverse theory?

Probability is crucial in the multiverse theory because it helps explain the distribution and occurrence of events across different universes. In a multiverse, events that are highly improbable in one universe might be common in another. Probabilistic reasoning allows scientists to make predictions about what we might expect to observe, given the vast number of possible universes.

Who or what is considered an observer in the context of the multiverse?

An observer in the context of the multiverse is any entity capable of making measurements or observations. This could be a human, an alien, or even a sophisticated machine. The concept of the observer is important because what is observed can depend on the specific universe in which the observer exists, affecting the perceived reality.

How does the concept of the observer affect our understanding of reality in the multiverse?

The concept of the observer affects our understanding of reality because it introduces subjectivity into what we consider to be "real." In the multiverse, different observers in different universes may have entirely different experiences and perceptions of reality. This challenges the notion of a single, objective reality and suggests that reality might be a composite of many subjective experiences across different universes.

Can we test or prove the existence of the multiverse?

Currently, testing or proving the existence of the multiverse is extremely challenging because other universes, if they exist, are beyond our observable horizon. However, some theories suggest that certain types of evidence, such as specific patterns in the cosmic microwave background radiation or the behavior of fundamental particles, might provide indirect clues. Until we develop more advanced technology or new theoretical breakthroughs, the multiverse remains a fascinating but largely speculative concept.

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