Quantum theory without classical time: quantum gravity and unification

In summary, the conversation discusses a recently published paper that claims to present a new Theory of Everything. The paper is based on Trace Dynamics, an 8-dimensional octonionic space, and derives several fundamental concepts such as 4D spacetime, quantum physics, gravitation, and the Standard Model with its 3 generations. The paper also presents a derivation of the fine structure constant with high accuracy. The speaker is not an expert in the subject but is intrigued by the paper's attempt to incorporate Division Algebras in First Principles. They seek opinions from others, including @john baez, on the feasibility and credit of this paper's claims.
  • #1
the_pulp
207
9
TL;DR Summary
This paper looks as a new Theory of Everything that from first principles (Trace Dynamics, Division Algebras, ...) seems to derive a lot of things (4D Spacetime, Quantum Mechanics, Standard Model, ...)
It came to my attention yesterday this, from my ignorant point of view, amazing paper that describes what it looks as another Theory of Everything: https://arxiv.org/abs/2110.02062

If I didnt understand incorrectly, from first principles / a pre quantum theory (Trace Dynamics, 8D octonionic Space, ...) it derives:
1) 4D Spacetime
2) Quantum Physics
3) Gravitation / Metric Tensor /...
4) Standard Model with its 3 generations
5) Many of its numerical parameters

I am not a proffesional in the subject at all so, as a consequence, I would highly appreciate any comment regarding this paper. Is my understanding correct? Does it look feasible? As a consequence of your understanding of this paper, do you give any credit to this line of investigation? Ps: I am always easily seduced by papers that tries to incorporate Division Algebras in First Principles so, as this paper claims to do it successfully, that's why it caught my attention,
 
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  • #2
I'm intrigued by this paper also. I haven't begun to grasp most of it, but I kind of "sat up and took notice" when I saw what seemed like a simple, logical derivation of the fine structure constant that is accurate to ~ 1 part in 10^5:
[tex] \alpha = \exp((\frac{1}{3} - \sqrt{\frac{3}{8}})\frac{2}{3})\frac{9}{1024} = 0.00729713 [/tex].
I'm not sure if there is something there, or if it is just numerology. I would love to hear what @john baez thinks.
 

FAQ: Quantum theory without classical time: quantum gravity and unification

What is the main idea behind "Quantum theory without classical time"?

The main idea behind "Quantum theory without classical time" is to develop a framework for quantum mechanics that does not rely on a predefined classical notion of time. This approach is motivated by the need to reconcile quantum mechanics with general relativity, where the concept of time is dynamic and influenced by gravitational fields. By treating time as an emergent property rather than a fixed background, this theory aims to provide a more consistent foundation for quantum gravity and the unification of fundamental forces.

Why is classical time problematic in quantum gravity?

Classical time is problematic in quantum gravity because general relativity and quantum mechanics treat time very differently. In general relativity, time is part of the dynamic spacetime fabric that can be warped by gravity. In contrast, quantum mechanics typically assumes a fixed, absolute time parameter. This discrepancy creates significant challenges when trying to formulate a theory of quantum gravity, as it is unclear how to integrate these differing views of time into a single coherent framework.

How does the absence of classical time affect the formulation of physical laws?

The absence of classical time necessitates a reformulation of physical laws to be independent of a fixed temporal background. This often involves using relational or background-independent approaches, where physical quantities are defined in terms of relationships between observable entities rather than their evolution over time. This can lead to new mathematical structures and conceptual frameworks, such as the Wheeler-DeWitt equation in canonical quantum gravity, which describes the quantum state of the universe without reference to an external time parameter.

What are some approaches to modeling time in quantum gravity?

Several approaches to modeling time in quantum gravity have been proposed, including the use of "emergent time" from entanglement or thermodynamic considerations, "timeless" formulations like the Wheeler-DeWitt equation, and the use of alternative temporal frameworks such as causal sets or spin networks. Each approach attempts to reconcile the dynamic nature of time in general relativity with the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, offering different perspectives on how time might emerge from a more fundamental, timeless quantum reality.

What implications does "Quantum theory without classical time" have for the unification of fundamental forces?

"Quantum theory without classical time" has significant implications for the unification of fundamental forces, as it seeks to provide a consistent framework that can accommodate both quantum mechanics and general relativity. By removing the reliance on a fixed classical time, this approach aims to create a more unified description of all interactions, potentially leading to new insights into the nature of spacetime, the origin of the universe, and the fundamental structure of reality. This could pave the way for a deeper understanding of how the different forces of nature are interconnected at the most fundamental level.

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