On TOEs, Higher Powers, Computers, & etc.

[dustin_archibald]

As for the discussion on what happens after the TOE is discovered (please note I'm referring to the "A perfect model of how the universe works" TOE):

We will still have the desire to put our discovery to use. It may take some time to develop the technology we may need to actually put this theory to good use..

[wildman]

The discovery of TOE is based on perspective.

Since this board seems to lean toward a Physics/Physical perspective most people here believe the TOE will be based on that. Physics/Mathematics rule the roost here. As such the "why" doesn't matter. An Observable/Predictable/Quantafiable phenomena perspective really only cares about how things work. Not why. A different name could be: A perfect model of how the universe works.

A TOE based on a spiritual perspective tends to negate the "how" and focus on the "why". It doesn't care how light moves from the sun to Earth; we get light and it is good.

A theory of all possible things must emcompass both.

Thank you.

[Craigo]

Maybe we are learning as we go. When we manage to fit words to the TOE it will become clear to us and instantly recognisable in a finger snapping "of course!" kind of way. We are already operating the system and doing quite well, the more we understand it the more efficient operators we become. A valid TOE will not empower any one to become ultimate ruler or some kind of God King because assuming there is a way to explain it all that we can understand, then it has always exsisted. All it will do is enable the clever technician and engineer types to use the odd concept to the betterment of mankind. Such as hydro electricity or velcro. I think the dream of everyone accepting the same theory and understanding it from end to end and thus becoming a superhuman race able to make universes of our own, ( movie makers do quite a reasonable job of this, if a bit short lived.)is a bit of a pipe dream really. We will always be thinking yes we have it this time at last! down to the pub for a celebratory pint and lo and behold some one has found something that doesn't fit. Any Toe will be emergent and a result of like minds bouncing ideas around and coming up with previously (we hope ) unthought of stuff, and discovering new things. A noble quest!!