Nature contributor David Chandler writes about the late Prof. Edward Fredkin and his impact on computer science and physics.
“Fredkin went even further and came to the conclusion that the entire universe can actually be seen as a kind of computer,” Chandler explains.
“In his view, it was a ‘cellular automaton’: a collection of computational bits, or cells, that can flip states according to a defined set of rules dictated by the states of the cells around them. Over time, these simple rules can give rise to all the complexities of the cosmos – even life.”
According to the proponents of this concept, traditional physics equations can be replaced by more understandable rules of computer functioning, especially when it comes to quantum computers.
The essence of this idea is that the laws of physics and the structure of the universe can be the first result of a complex computer algorithm.
However, such a revolutionary concept requires further research and verification. To prove that space and time consist of discrete data, it is necessary to perform detailed experiments at the level of the Planck scale. This is the scale on which existing physical theories can fail.
“The basic idea of a digital universe could well be testable. If we want the cosmos to be generated by a system of data bits on the Planck minor scale – a scale at which current theories of physics are expected to break down – space and time must consist of separate, quantized entities,” said Seth Lloyd. , a mechanical engineer at MIT who developed the first realizable concept for a quantum computer in 19932.
“The effect of such a granular space-time can be reflected in small differences, for example in how long it takes for light of different frequencies to propagate over billions of light years. However, to really capture this idea would probably require a quantum theory of gravity that captures the relationship between the effects of Einstein’s general theory of relativity on the macro scale and quantum effects on the micro scale.
“This has eluded theorists so far. This is where the digital universe might just help itself. Preferred routes to quantum theories of gravity are gradually beginning to appear more computational in nature,” says Lloyd – for example, the holographic principle introduced by ‘t Hooft, which states that our world is a projection of a lower-dimensional reality.
“It seems hopeful that these quantum digital universe ideas may shed some light on some of these mysteries.”
So far this question remains open, but the digital structure of the universe may have an important influence on its resolution.
Scientists are also looking at the holographic principle proposed by Gerard Hooft as a possible solution to this dilemma.
He suggests that our world may be a projection from a lower dimension, somehow consistent with the idea of a “digital universe.” This principle may provide new clues and guidelines for the development of the quantum theory of gravity.
Research in this area is just beginning. Perhaps we are on the cusp of a new era in our understanding of the universe, in which computer algorithms can help unlock its secrets.
If the idea of a “digital universe” turns out to be true, it will mark a turning point in the history of our understanding of the world around us, and perhaps we will rethink not only the laws of physics, but also the foundations of the reality.
