Explore the fascinating debate surrounding the inflationary theory of cosmology and the concept of the multiverse in this thought-provoking World Science Festival panel discussion. Delve into the origins of our universe as leading experts in cosmology, including Andreas Albrecht, Alan Guth, Andrei Linde, and Neil Turok, engage in an informed debate moderated by John Hockenberry. Examine key concepts such as the Big Bang theory, the vacuum of space, the Higgs field, and inflationary theory. Investigate the experimental evidence for the multiverse, the significance of the Planck satellite, and the implications of the cosmic microwave background. Ponder questions about what came before the Big Bang, the role of string theory in predicting a multiverse, and the nature of black hole horizons. Gain insights into cutting-edge cosmological theories and their potential to reshape our understanding of the universe's origins and structure.
Overview
Syllabus
Multiverse: In the Beginning
John Hockenberry's Introduction
Participant Introductions
The Big Bang theory.
The vacuum of space and the Higgs field.
What is inflationary theory?
What does the inflationary model explain?
What is the experimental evidence of the multiverse?
What is so exciting about the Planck satellite?
The CMB and what it means to a multiverse.
What came before the big bang?
Does string theory help predict there is a multiverse?
Having no choice is a hard choice to make.
Is the horizon of a black hole is much like the edge of the universe?
Is there a difference between a multiverse and two universes colliding?
Depending on infinity for predictions.
Taught by
World Science Festival
