This intriguing discussion features Marcelo Gleiser, an astrophysicist who merges science and philosophy, poet Marjolijn van Heemstra, and theoretical physicist Carlo Rovelli, known for his insights on time and quantum gravity. They delve into what time really is, exploring its personal and cosmic dimensions. The conversation touches on the emotional layers of time shaped by grief and memory, the mysteries of the universe from the Big Bang to black holes, and how a cosmic perspective can inspire unity amid human struggles.
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Quick takeaways
Time is a complex human construct intertwined with narratives of change, fundamentally linking personal experiences of grief to our understanding of existence.
The cosmological perspective of time, beginning with the Big Bang, encourages a profound reflection on our place in the universe and the interconnectedness of all things.
Deep dives
The Nature of Time
Time is a complex concept that blends seamlessly with our existence yet remains elusive and difficult to define. Theoretical physicist Marcelo Gleiser emphasizes that while we can measure time with operational definitions, its true nature and essence are still beyond our grasp. He suggests that perhaps time is a human construct designed to make sense of our lives, indicating that we need it primarily when we are narrating change or a story. Without change, time becomes irrelevant, reinforcing the idea that stories of the universe are inherently tied to the passage of time.
Personal Reflections on Time and Loss
Gleiser reflects on how personal experiences of grief, such as losing his mother at a young age, have influenced his quest to understand time. He articulates the profound anxieties associated with our finite existence, where the stories we tell can serve as a bridge to remain connected with those we have lost. This notion underscores the interplay between time, sorrow, and creativity, illustrating how human experiences are deeply intertwined with temporal awareness. For him, memory and storytelling become vital ways of transcending the limitations imposed by time.
Cosmology and the Beginning of Time
The podcast delves into cosmology, positing that the Big Bang represents the inception of time as we understand it, occurring approximately 14 billion years ago. Gleiser notes the concept of a cosmological arrow of time, which highlights that time is intrinsically linked to the expansion and transformation of the universe. This unfolding of events is foundational to understanding not only the cosmos but also our place within it, as everything we are made of originates from the stars. This connection between our existence and the universe's history serves to enhance the awe and mystery surrounding the nature of time.
The Philosophical Implications of Time
The exploration of time also leads to philosophical questions about existence, particularly the relationship between time and consciousness. Gleiser discusses the overwhelming experiences that astronauts undergo, known as the overview effect, which can shift perceptions of the urgency and relevance of time upon viewing Earth from space. This notion encourages a broader contemplation of our lives within the context of the vast universe, prompting reflections on unity and coexistence. Ultimately, understanding time through this expansive lens can foster a sense of acceptance regarding our impermanence and interconnectedness with all existence.
Our lives are so rushed, so busy. Always on the clock. Counting the hours, minutes, seconds. Have you ever stopped to wonder: what are you counting? What is this thing, that’s all around us, invisible, inescapable, always running out? What is time?