October 23, 2021 – Physics has been triumphant in understanding the vast array of structures in the universe and the forces which link the microscopic and macroscopic domains. This link culminates in the big bang, where the very small (M-theory) meets the very large (the multiverse). The history of physics might also be regarded as the expansion of our consciousness to ever larger and smaller scales. However, at each stage the micro and macro frontiers have been regarded as bordering on philosophy because of the lack of empirical data. So does the merging of the two physics/philosophy borders at the big bang indicate the end of physics or the need for a radically new paradigm. Carr takes the latter view and argues that a feature of the next paradigm must be an expansion of physics to accommodate mind and consciousness. This proposal impinges on two problems on the borders of physics and philosophy: the relationship between physical space and perceptual space and the nature of the passage of time. It is argued that the resolution of both these problems may involve a 5-dimensional model, with the 5th dimension being associated with mental time. This proposal may relate to recent developments in brane cosmology, which is one version if the multiverse proposal. A description of consciousness must also entail a proper understanding of the specious present, the minimum timescale of conscious experience, and this may be associated with other dimensions which arise in M-theory. Higher dimensions may therefore play a vital role in linking physics, the multiverse and mind.

Bernard Carr, PhD, is Emeritus Professor of Mathematics and Astronomy at Queen Mary University of London. He was President of the Society for Psychical Research in 2000-2004 and is currently President of the Scientific and Medical Network.

Length: 2 hours