Keywords
multiverse, fine-tuned universe, simulation, cosmology, creation of universe, epistemological framework, Drake equation
Abstract
The possibility that our universe was initiated intentionally is a compelling philosophical and scientific question that can be evaluated probabilistically based on four primary considerations: fine-tuning in our universe, hypotheses about the multiverse, the likelihood that intelligent life may be able to initiate a universe, and the possibility that we live in a simulation. This paper offers an equation analogous to the noteworthy Drake equation that is intended to be used as a structured thought experiment to help identify factors related to the initiation of our universe and to facilitate examining each in terms of what we know, do not know, and potentially could know about them.
Original Publication Citation
Broadbent, Dan (2023) Could Our Universe Have Been Initiated Intentionally: An Epistemological Framework. Philosophy and Cosmology, Volume 31, 4-12. https://doi.org/10.29202/phil-cosm/31/1
BYU ScholarsArchive Citation
Broadbent, Dan, "Could Our Universe Have Been Initiated Intentionally: An Epistemological Framework" (2023). Faculty Publications. 7086.
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/facpub/7086
Document Type
Peer-Reviewed Article
Publication Date
2023-10-15
Publisher
Philosophy and Cosmology Journal
Language
English
College
Harold B. Lee Library
Department
Physics and Astronomy
Copyright Status
Philosophy and Cosmology Journal is Open Access.
Copyright Use Information
https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/