Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal

Abhay Ashtekar on Gödel Universes, Buddha's Poison Arrow, Time Travel, and Loop Quantum Cosmology

Aug 1, 2022
Guest
Abhay Ashtekar
In a fascinating dialogue, Abhay Ashtekar, a pioneer in loop quantum cosmology, explores the concept of Gödel Universes and their implications on time travel. He delves into the philosophical aspects of suffering through the lens of the Buddha's teachings, emphasizing the intersection of science and spirituality. The conversation also navigates the challenges of unifying quantum gravity with classical physics, examining the nature of black holes and proposing innovative concepts like the Ashtekar bounce. Ashtekar's insights bridge complex physics and deep philosophical questions.
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ANECDOTE

Buddha's Poison Arrow

  • Buddha ignored Malunkyaputta's cosmological questions, saying they don't reduce suffering.
  • He prioritized understanding suffering over external world questions.
INSIGHT

Reality as a Manifold

  • Reality is best modeled as a manifold, like a sphere, with the inner and outer world as charts.
  • The key lies in the overlap, where seemingly different perspectives become compatible.
INSIGHT

Neuroscience and Meditation

  • Neuroscience shows that meditative practices quiet the Default Mode Network (DMN) in the brain.
  • This quieting of the DMN, associated with the sense of self, can lead to altered perceptions.
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