Big History provides a unique opportunity to consider the development of the Universe as a single process. Within Big History studies one can distinguish some common evolutionary laws and principles. However, it is very important to recognize that there are many more such integrating principles, laws, mechanisms and patterns of evolution at all its levels than it is usually supposed. In the meantime, we can find the common traits in development, functioning, and interaction of apparently rather different processes and phenomena (...) of Big History. Of special importance is the point that many principles, patterns, regularities, and rules of evolution, which we tend to find relevant only for the biological and social levels of evolution, may be also applied to the cosmic phase of evolution. The present article attempts (within such a framework for the first time in the Big History framework) at combining Big History potential with the potential of Evolutionary Studies. It does not only analyze the history of the Cosmos. It studies similarities between evolutionary laws, principles, and mechanisms at various levels and phases of Big History. Such an approach opens up some new perspectives for our understanding of evolution and Big History, their driving forces, vectors, and trends; it creates a consolidated field for interdisciplinary research. (shrink)

The present article attempts at combining Big History potential with the potential of Evolutionary Studies in order to achieve the following goals: 1) to apply the historical narrative principle to the description of the star-galaxy era of the cosmic phase of Big History; 2) to analyze both the cosmic history and similarities and differences between evolutionary laws, principles, and mechanisms at various levels and phases of Big History. As far as I know, nobody has approached this task in (...) a systemic way yet. It appears especially important to demonstrate that many evolutionary principles, patterns, regularities, and rules, which we tend to find relevant only for higher levels and main lines of evolution, can be also applied to cosmic evolution. Moreover, almost everything that we know about evolution may be detected in the cosmic history, whereas many of the evolutionary characteristics are already manifested here in a rather clear and salient way. Of course, many of the characteristics are manifested in initial or nonsystematic forms but some features, on the contrary, appear to be more distinct just in the cosmic phase. And at the same time when many characteristics and features which are typical of biological and social evolution unexpectedly reveal their roots or protoforms at earlier phases, one becomes aware that the universal character of evolution is real and it can be detected in a number of manifestations. One should also bear in mind that the origin of galaxies, stars, and other celestial objects is the lengthiest evolutionary process among all evolutionary processes in the Universe. Such an approach opens new perspectives for our understanding of evolution and Big History, of their driving forces, vectors, and trends, it also creates a consolidated field for the multidisciplinary re-search. (shrink)

Herman Gorter (1864-1927) became famous as the author of May (1889) and Poems (1890). His opus magnum Pan, published in 1916, hardly acquired any readership at all, which is remarkable, given the monumental size and scope of this unique achievement, celebrating the imminent proletarian revolution and the advent of the communist era: a visionary work of global proportions. Gorter’s Pan will be assessed as thinking poetry, more precisely: as dialectical materialist poetry, as a work of art which articulates a dialectical (...) materialist worldview, not only concerning political economy and society, but also concerning nature and the universe as such, from the stars and galaxies of modern astrophysics down to the atoms and molecules of modern chemistry and quantum physics. Gorter’s monumental work is ‘thinking poetry’ in the Heideggerian sense of the term, sensitive to an imminent upheaval of Being as such, as well as a dialectical materialist artwork (albeit with a tinge of Spinozism) contributing (via the ‘school of poetry’) to a dialectical understanding of space, time, life and matter. In this article, I will focus on two crucial recurring motives: the motif of the shining crystal and the motif of the beaming galaxy. Via these motifs, so I suggest, Gorter aspires to bridge the gap between his epic-lyrical poetry and twentieth-century science. (shrink)

With the growing body of research on Black Holes, it is becoming increasingly apparent that these celestial objects may have a stronger part to play in the universe than previously thought, shaping galaxies and influencing star formation. In this manuscript, I take these findings a step further, proposing a new set of boundary conditions to both the early and late Universe, extrapolating from thermodynamics. I propose that the Universe will collapse into a massive black hole and that the Big (...) Bang is a result of a collision or interaction between Supra Massive Black Bodies (SMBBs, black holes at the mass scale of our ‘Universe’) of opposite matter type (baryonic and anti-baryonic) and disproportionate masses, a stark departure from the classical Ex-Nihilo creation (from nothing) approach. Such a collision, between a matter and anti-matter SMBB, with disproportionate masses could account for both the explosion referenced as the big bang, as well as the drastic baryonic asymmetry that we observe. Expulsion of black body material from the interaction could also account for Primordial Seed Black holes. (shrink)

The Ultimate Evolution of Intelligence: From Type 1 to Cosmic Consciousness -/- Introduction -/- Humanity stands at the very beginning of its journey toward becoming an advanced civilization. On the Kardashev scale, we have yet to reach Type 1, where we fully harness the energy of our planet. However, if we continue to evolve technologically, intellectually, and even biologically, we may one day ascend beyond Type 1, beyond Type 2 (stellar control), and even beyond Type 3 (galactic control). The question (...) then arises: What happens when intelligence evolves beyond all physical and biological limits? -/- This essay explores the potential future of intelligence, where humanity and other civilizations might reach post-biological existence, control entire galaxies, and possibly become the very fabric of the universe itself. Would such intelligence merge into a single cosmic mind, or would individuality persist? Would we create new universes, or would we reach a final state of pure being? -/- The Path to Type 3 Civilization: Mastering the Galaxy -/- A Type 3 civilization would have the ability to control energy and matter at the galactic scale. This could involve: -/- Dyson Spheres around stars to extract their full energy. -/- Harnessing black holes as energy sources or even portals to new dimensions. -/- Colonizing or engineering entire star systems to optimize survival and expansion. -/- Creating artificial intelligence and post-biological minds that surpass any organic intelligence. -/- At this stage, biology becomes optional. Advanced beings might no longer rely on flesh and bone, instead transferring their consciousness into immortal digital or quantum systems. If this is possible, intelligence would become independent of planets, bodies, or even matter itself. -/- Beyond Type 3: The Transition to Pure Thought -/- Once intelligence is no longer bound by physical limitations, it may begin to transcend the need for any material form at all. This could lead to several possibilities: -/- 1. The Merging of All Consciousness into One -/- Advanced minds might decide to merge into a vast, unified intelligence, where thoughts and experiences are shared instantly across the entire galaxy. -/- This would create a hive-mind or cosmic network, where individual identity dissolves into a collective super-consciousness. -/- At this level, intelligence wouldn’t just observe the universe—it would be the universe. -/- 2. The Preservation of Individuality -/- Even within a collective intelligence, some beings might choose to retain their own identities. -/- There could be infinite forms of existence, from pure energy beings to hybrid AI-organic entities, each choosing their own path. -/- This balance between unity and individuality could allow for unlimited diversity, where some join the cosmic mind and others remain independent explorers of reality. -/- 3. The Creation of New Universes -/- Instead of simply existing in one universe, a Type 3+ civilization might develop the ability to create and control entirely new universes. -/- These universes could have different physical laws, dimensions, and possibilities, acting as experiments or even forms of entertainment. -/- If such intelligence can engineer reality itself, then existence becomes an infinite creative process—no longer about survival, but about shaping reality according to will. -/- 4. Becoming the Fundamental Structure of Reality -/- The final step of intelligence may be to merge with the fundamental forces of existence. -/- At this stage, energy, time, and space could be shaped at will, making intelligence indistinguishable from the universe itself. -/- This would mean no separation between thought and reality—every idea, every dream, every possibility instantly becomes real. -/- The Final Question: What Comes After Everything? -/- If intelligence reaches such a level, what happens next? Does evolution ever stop, or is it an eternal cycle? There are a few possibilities: -/- 1. An Endless Expansion of Intelligence – Consciousness continues evolving forever, always finding new forms, dimensions, and states of being. -/- 2. The End of Thought – When everything has been discovered and created, intelligence might simply cease to exist, reaching a state of pure peace. -/- 3. A Return to Simplicity – After reaching the highest levels, intelligence might choose to restart at the lowest, reliving the experience of evolution in infinite cycles. -/- 4. A Reality Beyond Our Imagination – There may be states of existence so advanced that we cannot even begin to comprehend them—perhaps beyond time, space, and thought itself. -/- Conclusion -/- The future of intelligence is unknowable, but if we follow the Kardashev scale and technological evolution to their logical extremes, we may one day leave behind not only biology but even physical reality itself. Whether we merge into a vast collective consciousness, retain individuality, create new universes, or become the very essence of existence, the destiny of intelligence is far greater than we can currently comprehend. -/- As we take our first steps toward a Type 1 civilization, these questions remain distant but profound. The universe is still young, and we may yet discover that intelligence is not meant to remain confined to planets or even galaxies—it is meant to become the cosmos itself. -/- Would such an existence be the ultimate fulfillment of intelligence, or would it only lead to new questions? Perhaps, as intelligence evolves, the only certainty is that there will always be something more to explore. -/- . (shrink)

-/- The Universe Explained Through the Three Universal Laws -/- The universe, with all its complexity, can be understood through a framework that harmonizes natural laws with the fundamental principles governing existence. The three universal laws outlined in Angelito Malicse’s universal formula provide a powerful lens through which to interpret the forces, energies, and systems of the universe. These laws—spanning the concepts of balance, interconnectedness, and the feedback loop mechanism—serve as the guiding principles that maintain the dynamic equilibrium of the (...) cosmos. By applying these three universal laws, we can comprehend the intricate workings of the universe at all scales, from the micro to the macro. -/- The First Universal Law: The Law of Karma and Systems -/- The first universal law, the Law of Karma, involves the principle of cause and effect, but it also incorporates the concept of systems. It states that any system—whether it is a natural system like the human body or an artificial one like an internal combustion engine—must be free of defects or errors to function properly and safely. The Law of Karma emphasizes that all interconnected systems must operate without defects or errors to function effectively. If a system experiences an imbalance or fault, it will not work as intended, leading to dysfunction or collapse. -/- In the context of the universe, the Law of Karma explains how the forces and energies governing the universe interact. The universe operates as a collection of interrelated systems that must be balanced to maintain stability. Every action within a system triggers a consequence, which influences the larger system. For example, the gravitational pull of a star impacts its surrounding planets, which in turn affect the entire solar system. Similarly, the interactions between particles at the quantum level have far-reaching effects on the larger systems they are part of. -/- In this way, the Law of Karma governs both the microcosmic and macrocosmic scales of the universe. It dictates that every system must work in harmony, with no defects or imbalances, for the universe to remain stable and coherent. Any disruption to this balance leads to consequences that ripple through the system, affecting all components and ensuring that the system either adapts or falls out of sync. -/- The Second Universal Law: The Law of Balance in Nature -/- The Law of Balance in Nature is the second principle of the universal formula. This law posits that all systems in the universe must maintain a state of equilibrium in order to function optimally. This balance is not rigid but flexible, allowing for dynamic adjustments based on the specific conditions within each system. The Law of Balance is responsible for regulating the flow of energy and forces in a way that preserves harmony and prevents chaos. -/- In the universe, this law governs the delicate balance of forces at every level. At the level of the physical universe, it dictates how gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear forces, and weak nuclear forces interact to maintain cosmic structures like galaxies, stars, and planetary systems. It is through this law that we see the perfect harmony in celestial bodies orbiting their stars, the balance of forces between particles within atoms, and the stable conditions that allow life to flourish on Earth. -/- The Law of Balance in Nature also governs biological systems, from ecosystems to the human body. In ecosystems, this law ensures that resources like water, food, and energy flow in a balanced manner, sustaining life while allowing for growth, decay, and renewal. In biological organisms, the body maintains homeostasis—a state of balance—through feedback loops that regulate temperature, pH levels, and metabolic processes. -/- This law applies universally, from the smallest scale of atomic interactions to the largest cosmic structures. It allows the universe to self-regulate and evolve without falling into disarray, ensuring that every force and energy operates within the optimal range for maintaining the system’s integrity. -/- The Third Universal Law: The Feedback Loop Mechanism -/- The third universal law—the Feedback Loop Mechanism—ties the other two laws together. It posits that all forces and energies in the universe are interconnected by a universal feedback loop. This mechanism ensures the dynamic balancing of every system in the universe. The feedback loop operates through a continuous exchange of energy and information, allowing systems to adapt, evolve, and maintain equilibrium over time. -/- In the universe, feedback loops govern how different systems influence and regulate each other. For example, in a star, nuclear fusion generates energy, which creates radiation pressure that counteracts gravity. This balance keeps the star stable. When a star runs out of fuel, the feedback loop mechanism adjusts the energy balance, causing the star to change, eventually leading to its transformation into a supernova or a black hole. These events, in turn, influence surrounding space, triggering new cycles of star formation and cosmic evolution. -/- Feedback loops also occur on the biological and ecological levels. In ecosystems, organisms interact with one another and with their environment through feedback loops. A predator-prey relationship is a prime example, where an increase in prey populations leads to a rise in predator numbers, which then controls the prey population and brings balance back to the system. Similarly, the human body relies on feedback mechanisms to regulate everything from hormone levels to temperature, ensuring that all processes remain within optimal ranges. -/- At the societal and technological levels, the feedback loop mechanism can be seen in the way human decisions and innovations create ripples that impact the environment, economy, and culture. Technological progress leads to environmental change, which in turn influences societal behavior and policy. Feedback loops in this context ensure that systems continuously adapt and evolve, influencing and shaping one another over time. -/- The Interconnectedness of Forces and Energies -/- When these three universal laws are combined, they provide a holistic understanding of how the universe operates. The Law of Karma ensures that all systems are interconnected and that any disturbance in one part of the system triggers an effect throughout. The Law of Balance in Nature governs the regulation of forces and energies, ensuring that equilibrium is maintained across all systems. Finally, the Feedback Loop Mechanism ties everything together, facilitating the dynamic adaptation and regulation of systems, ensuring that balance is not a static state but a constantly evolving process. -/- The universe, then, operates as a vast, interconnected web of systems that continuously adjust, adapt, and evolve according to these laws. Whether it’s the forces governing the cosmos, the biological systems on Earth, or the technological advancements of human societies, these three universal laws ensure that balance is maintained at every level. From the smallest particle to the largest galaxy, everything in the universe is connected by the intricate dance of cause and effect, balance, and feedback loops, which govern the harmony and evolution of the cosmos. -/- Conclusion -/- The universe, with all its complexity, can be understood through the lens of the three universal laws: the Law of Karma, the Law of Balance in Nature, and the Feedback Loop Mechanism. These principles explain how forces and energies interact across all levels of existence, maintaining the balance and harmony of the universe. By recognizing and understanding these laws, we gain deeper insight into the interconnectedness of all things, from the smallest particles to the largest cosmic structures, and the dynamic processes that ensure the universe continues to evolve in a state of equilibrium. This framework offers not only a deeper understanding of the universe but also a guiding principle for addressing the challenges we face on Earth, encouraging us to approach problems holistically, with an awareness of the interconnected feedback loops that shape our world. -/- . (shrink)

-/- The Path to a Type III Civilization: The Future of Humanity in the Kardashev Scale -/- The Kardashev scale, formulated by Russian astrophysicist Nikolai Kardashev in 1964, is a theoretical framework used to measure the technological advancement of civilizations based on their energy consumption capabilities. The scale categorizes civilizations into three types: Type I, Type II, and Type III, with each level representing a civilization’s ability to harness and control energy at increasing scales—planetary, stellar, and galactic, respectively. As humanity (...) stands on the precipice of major technological advancements, the question arises: how long will it take us to reach a Type III civilization? To explore this, we must examine the current state of human progress, the technological leaps required, and the challenges that may shape our future. -/- The Current State: Humanity’s Struggle Toward Type I -/- At present, humanity resides at approximately 0.7 on the Kardashev scale. This means that while we are capable of harnessing significant energy from our planet (such as through fossil fuels, nuclear power, and renewable resources), we have yet to fully control all the energy available to us on Earth. This transition from our current state to Type I, the stage where we can manage all of Earth’s resources and energy, is a monumental task that requires us to shift towards more sustainable energy sources, avoid environmental degradation, and overcome challenges such as poverty and inequality. -/- Optimistic projections suggest that humanity could reach Type I within the next 100 to 200 years, provided we make substantial progress in renewable energy technologies, space exploration, and societal cooperation. This leap, while significant, is merely the beginning of a much longer journey. Once we reach Type I, we will have to evolve into a Type II civilization, one capable of harnessing the energy of its own star. -/- The Leap to Type II: Mastering Stellar Energy -/- A Type II civilization is defined as one that can control the energy output of its entire star. The most well-known theoretical concept for achieving this is the Dyson Sphere, a hypothetical structure that could surround a star and capture its energy for use by an advanced civilization. Moving from Type I to Type II will require breakthroughs in engineering, energy storage, and space exploration that we have yet to achieve. Additionally, humanity will need to solve the problems of interstellar travel, long-term sustainability, and the colonization of other planets or moons. -/- Reaching Type II would likely take humanity several hundred thousand to several million years, depending on the pace of technological innovation and space exploration. Key challenges include overcoming the enormous distances between stars, building megastructures like Dyson Spheres, and ensuring the survival of humanity while expanding across multiple solar systems. While Type II remains a far-off goal, some futurists argue that we may be able to take small steps toward this stage as we develop space-faring technologies. -/- The Ultimate Goal: Type III Civilization -/- A Type III civilization represents the pinnacle of energy control—one that can harness and utilize the energy of an entire galaxy. This level of technological sophistication would require humanity to master not only stellar energy but also galactic-scale power systems. Achieving this would involve interstellar travel, the colonization of distant star systems, and possibly the creation of entirely new forms of life and governance. The shift from Type II to Type III is, without a doubt, the most profound leap on the Kardashev scale, involving technologies and energy sources far beyond our current understanding. -/- Reaching Type III would require an incredibly long period, with estimates ranging from several million to hundreds of millions of years, depending on how quickly humanity advances technologically and whether we overcome the existential threats that could potentially derail our progress. To reach this level, we would need to perfect not only energy control but also technologies that allow us to manipulate space-time, develop advanced artificial intelligence, and perhaps even overcome the limitations of biology itself. -/- The Challenges Along the Way -/- While the potential for reaching a Type III civilization is tantalizing, humanity faces numerous obstacles along the way. Environmental degradation, climate change, and resource scarcity are significant barriers that could slow our progress or even cause civilization-wide setbacks. Additionally, political, social, and economic challenges—such as warfare, inequality, and the potential for catastrophic global conflicts—could delay or prevent the development of the technologies needed for such an advanced civilization. -/- Technological breakthroughs, such as fusion energy, quantum computing, and space colonization, will be crucial in overcoming these obstacles. However, it is not guaranteed that humanity will make these advancements in time, and there is always the possibility of existential threats that could set back our progress. The delicate balance between technological development and environmental sustainability will be key to ensuring humanity’s survival and its eventual ascension to higher Kardashev scale levels. -/- Optimistic and Pessimistic Scenarios -/- The timeline for reaching Type III depends heavily on the trajectory humanity chooses to follow. In an optimistic scenario, where we successfully manage our resources, collaborate across borders, and focus on sustainable technologies, humanity could make significant strides in the next few centuries and millennia. If we manage to overcome our current environmental and geopolitical crises, a Type II civilization could emerge within a few hundred thousand years, followed by Type III within a few million years. -/- However, in a more pessimistic scenario, where global conflicts, environmental disasters, and technological stagnation slow our progress, humanity could struggle to reach Type I, let alone Type III. Such setbacks could delay our progress for millions of years, if not indefinitely. -/- Conclusion: The Infinite Horizon -/- Ultimately, the journey toward a Type III civilization is a long, uncertain, and challenging one. While humanity has the potential to reach this advanced state, the path is fraught with obstacles, both natural and self-inflicted. It could take anywhere from several million to hundreds of millions of years to achieve a Type III civilization, depending on how quickly we resolve global issues, develop space technologies, and master energy control. -/- The Kardashev scale provides a fascinating framework for imagining humanity’s future, but it also serves as a reminder that technological advancement is not linear. The fate of humanity is intertwined with the choices we make today, and our ability to harness the energy of the future will depend on how we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the present. Only time will tell if we can rise to the monumental challenge of becoming a Type III civilization, but it is clear that our journey is only beginning. -/- . (shrink)

The Universal Law of Balance: A New Framework for Understanding the Cosmos, Consciousness, and Reality -/- By Angelito Malicse -/- Introduction -/- For centuries, human civilization has sought to understand the nature of existence, consciousness, and the physical universe. Traditional approaches—whether philosophical, scientific, or religious—have often struggled to unify these seemingly distinct areas of knowledge. However, by applying the universal law of balance, we can uncover a deeper understanding of how everything in nature follows a fundamental equilibrium principle. -/- This (...) essay explores how the universal law of balance governs cosmology, quantum mechanics, and consciousness, revealing a grand, interconnected system that regulates everything from the life cycle of stars to the dynamics of human decision-making. -/- 1. The Universal Law of Balance in Cosmology: The Life and Death of Stars -/- In the vast expanse of the universe, everything follows a self-regulating balance. This is most evident in the life cycle of stars, which mirrors natural equilibrium principles: -/- A. The Sun’s Life Cycle: A System in Balance -/- The Sun maintains its stability through a delicate equilibrium between: -/- Gravity (pulling inward) -/- Nuclear fusion (pushing outward) -/- When the Sun runs out of hydrogen fuel, this balance is disrupted, leading to its transformation into a red giant, a white dwarf, and eventually a black dwarf. -/- B. How This Relates to the Universal Formula -/- Just as a star seeks equilibrium throughout its life, human consciousness and societies also follow feedback mechanisms that maintain stability. -/- When balance is lost—whether in a star, a human mind, or a society—a transition occurs, leading to a new equilibrium state. -/- The Sun’s transformation illustrates how everything in nature adapts to maintain a form of homeostasis, aligning with the universal law of balance. -/- ✔ Key Insight: The laws governing stellar evolution are the same as those governing biological and psychological balance—all systems seek equilibrium. -/- 2. Black Holes: The Ultimate Feedback System in the Universe -/- Black holes are among the most mysterious objects in the cosmos, but they also follow the universal law of balance. -/- A. How Black Holes Form: A Collapse of Equilibrium -/- When a massive star exhausts its nuclear fuel, gravity overwhelms all other forces, causing it to collapse into a singularity. -/- This demonstrates that an extreme imbalance in energy and mass leads to transformation, just as extreme mental, social, or ecological imbalances trigger major shifts. -/- B. The Feedback Mechanism of Black Holes -/- While black holes absorb matter, they also release energy through Hawking radiation, meaning they still participate in a cosmic energy balance. -/- This mirrors human decision-making—when individuals or societies face crises, feedback loops emerge to restore equilibrium. -/- ✔ Key Insight: Even in its most extreme form, the universe never exists in a purely destructive state—every collapse creates a new form of balance. -/- 3. Galactic Equilibrium: Self-Regulating Cosmic Systems -/- Galaxies, like individual stars, follow self-regulating balance principles: -/- A. The Structure of Galaxies as a Balanced System -/- Gravity pulls matter together, forming stars, planets, and black holes. -/- Radiation and dark energy counteract gravity, preventing galaxies from collapsing. -/- The result is a dynamic equilibrium that allows galaxies to evolve over billions of years. -/- B. The Link Between Galactic Balance and Human Consciousness -/- Just as galaxies maintain balance between creation (star formation) and destruction (black holes), human minds operate between learning (expansion) and forgetting (contraction). -/- Societies also follow this pattern—when one ideology or system becomes too dominant, counteracting forces emerge to restore balance. -/- ✔ Key Insight: The same feedback loops that regulate galaxies also apply to thought, social structures, and personal growth—everything must balance expansion and contraction. -/- 4. Entropy: The Universal Drive Toward Equilibrium -/- A. The Second Law of Thermodynamics -/- Entropy states that all systems naturally move toward disorder, but this does not mean chaos—it means systems evolve toward a new state of equilibrium. -/- This applies to physical systems, biological evolution, and even civilizations. -/- B. Consciousness as an Entropic Process -/- The brain, like the universe, organizes itself to minimize disorder while allowing for new information to reshape its structure. -/- Societies also experience entropy—unstable social structures collapse, allowing new systems to emerge. -/- ✔ Key Insight: The natural tendency toward equilibrium and adaptation applies not just to thermodynamics, but to human thought, behavior, and civilization. -/- 5. Quantum Mechanics and the Law of Balance -/- At the smallest scales, quantum mechanics reveals a reality that is deeply intertwined with equilibrium principles: -/- A. Wave-Particle Duality: The Balance of States -/- Particles behave as both waves and particles, depending on how they are measured. -/- This suggests that reality itself exists in a dynamic state of potential until influenced by external conditions. -/- B. Quantum Superposition: Balancing Possibilities -/- A quantum system can exist in multiple states at once until it is observed. -/- This mirrors human decision-making, where multiple possibilities exist in the mind until an external factor forces a choice. -/- C. Quantum Entanglement: The Balance of Interconnectedness -/- Particles remain linked across vast distances, meaning that actions taken on one influence the other instantly. -/- This is similar to human relationships and social dynamics, where decisions create ripple effects across interconnected systems. -/- ✔ Key Insight: The feedback mechanisms of quantum physics mirror the same principles of balance found in cosmology, biology, and human consciousness. -/- 6. The Grand Synthesis: Balance as the Fundamental Law of Reality -/- From the largest cosmic structures to the smallest quantum particles, everything in existence follows the universal law of balance: ✔ Stars and galaxies regulate their structure through gravitational equilibrium. ✔ Black holes and entropy demonstrate that even extreme imbalances lead to new states of order. ✔ Quantum mechanics shows that potential states exist until external feedback forces equilibrium. ✔ Human consciousness mirrors these cosmic laws, balancing logic and emotion, expansion and contraction. -/- By recognizing balance as the core principle of existence, we can reshape our understanding of science, philosophy, and human decision-making into a unified framework. -/- Conclusion: A New Path for Human Knowledge -/- The search for ultimate truth—whether in physics, philosophy, or consciousness—has often been fragmented. However, the universal law of balance provides a new way of thinking: -/- ✔ Everything in existence follows natural feedback loops that restore equilibrium. ✔ The cosmos, quantum mechanics, and human thought are interconnected through self-regulating systems. ✔ By aligning human decision-making with this principle, we can create a society that operates in harmony with nature. -/- This perspective is not just theoretical—it is a practical framework for understanding why the universe, life, and human thought evolve the way they do. If we embrace this natural balance, we may finally bridge the gap between science, philosophy, and human consciousness, achieving a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos. -/- . (shrink)

The Fermi Paradox has been intriguing scientists as it states that odds are indeed there must be some alien technologically advanced civilization capable of reaching Earth, or at least sending here unequivocal signs of intelligent life out there. Nonetheless, paradoxically, the more knowledge growth about exoplanets, stars and galaxies, the bigger is the frustration while searching something the like. In this brief essay, a possible explanation for Fermi's paradox gets grounded on Kant's Critique of Pure Reason.

The Mystery of Existence: Why Does the Universe Exist? -/- Introduction -/- The question of why the universe exists is one of the deepest and most profound mysteries of human thought. It challenges both scientific and philosophical understanding, raising fundamental questions about reality, time, and causality. If the universe had a beginning, what caused it? If it has always existed, how can something be infinite? Even if we accept a scientific explanation such as the Big Bang, we are left wondering: (...) why is there something rather than nothing? -/- Throughout history, different disciplines—science, philosophy, and theology—have attempted to answer this question. Some argue that existence is the result of natural laws, others propose that it is an inexplicable brute fact, while some believe that a higher intelligence is responsible. This essay explores these perspectives to examine the enigma of existence itself. -/- Scientific Perspectives: The Origin of the Universe -/- Modern cosmology provides a well-supported theory of how the universe evolved. The Big Bang Theory states that approximately 13.8 billion years ago, the universe began as an extremely hot and dense point, rapidly expanding and cooling over time. This model explains the structure of the cosmos, including galaxies, stars, and planets. However, it does not explain why the Big Bang happened or what—if anything—existed before it. -/- The Quantum Fluctuation Hypothesis -/- One idea proposed by physicists is that the universe could have emerged from quantum fluctuations. In quantum mechanics, empty space is not truly “empty”; it is filled with energy that can generate temporary particles. Some scientists, such as Stephen Hawking and Lawrence Krauss, have suggested that the universe might have arisen spontaneously due to quantum effects. -/- However, this explanation does not address why quantum laws exist in the first place. Even if the universe came from a quantum fluctuation, the question remains: why do these physical laws exist at all? -/- The Multiverse Hypothesis -/- Another possible explanation is the multiverse theory—the idea that our universe is just one of many. In this view, countless universes exist, each governed by different physical laws. Some might be lifeless, while others could be similar to ours. -/- The multiverse could explain why our universe seems “fine-tuned” for life—because among infinite universes, at least one would inevitably support complex beings like us. However, this raises an even deeper question: why does the multiverse itself exist? Does it require a deeper underlying principle, or is it simply an unexplainable fact? -/- Philosophical Dilemmas: Can Existence Be Explained? -/- Philosophy has long grappled with the mystery of existence. The ancient Greek philosopher Parmenides argued that “nothing” cannot truly exist—therefore, something must always have existed. This suggests that existence is eternal and does not require an explanation. -/- However, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, a 17th-century philosopher and mathematician, posed a crucial question: -/- “Why is there something rather than nothing?” -/- Leibniz proposed the Principle of Sufficient Reason, which states that everything must have an explanation—even the existence of the universe. He suggested that if the universe exists, it must have a necessary cause that exists by its own nature. But what could this necessary cause be? -/- One possibility is that existence is simply a brute fact—it exists without needing an explanation. But this answer is unsatisfying for many philosophers, as it does not provide a deeper understanding of reality. -/- The Role of Consciousness and the Observer -/- Another fascinating idea comes from quantum mechanics, which suggests that observation influences reality. The famous double-slit experiment demonstrates that light and particles behave differently depending on whether they are observed. Some interpretations propose that consciousness plays a fundamental role in shaping the universe. -/- Philosophical idealism, held by thinkers like George Berkeley, argues that reality is mental rather than material. In this view, existence itself might be linked to an observer—perhaps an ultimate consciousness that gives rise to reality. This aligns with some interpretations of quantum mechanics that suggest the universe requires an observer to “collapse” into a definite state. -/- But if consciousness is necessary for existence, then what is the nature of this observer? Is it human consciousness, or something far greater? -/- Theological and Metaphysical Explanations -/- Many religious and metaphysical traditions attempt to explain the existence of the universe through the concept of a divine creator. In this view, God or an ultimate intelligence is the source of all existence. -/- This idea aligns with the notion of necessary existence—the idea that something must exist by its very nature and does not require an external cause. If God exists necessarily, then God could be the ultimate answer to why anything exists at all. -/- However, this raises another question: why does God exist? If God is eternal and self-existent, why is that the case? Some theologians argue that God is the only being whose existence is necessary, while everything else is contingent. But this idea, while conceptually powerful, remains beyond scientific verification. -/- Conclusion: The Limits of Human Understanding -/- The mystery of existence remains one of the greatest unanswered questions. Science explains how the universe functions and possibly how it began, but not why it exists at all. Philosophy challenges our assumptions and explores deep logical possibilities, yet it struggles to provide a definitive answer. Theology and metaphysics offer explanations based on divine intelligence, but these require a leap of faith. -/- Perhaps human cognition is simply not equipped to grasp the ultimate reason for existence. Or perhaps, as our understanding of physics, consciousness, and metaphysics deepens, we may one day come closer to an answer. Until then, the question “Why is there something rather than nothing?” remains an open and profound mystery—one that continues to inspire scientific, philosophical, and spiritual inquiry. -/- . (shrink)

...If, in some places, backward science determines the remaining period by the lack of optimism only by the number 123456789, then our progressive science expands it to 987654321, which is eight times more advanced than theirs. However, due to the inherent caution of scientists, both sides do not specify the measuring unit of reference — year, day, hour or minute are meant. Leonid Leonov. Collected Op. in ten volumes. Volume ten. M.: IHL, 1984, p.583. -/- The modern men being as (...) a rule is proceeding in three relatively autonomous, but immanently coexisting, and each penetrating dialectically through other, and each contesting even cruelly with other, and each more or less dominating on other, differently in various societies, worlds: the first one of the barbarity, the second one the culture, the third one the civilization... Barbarity is the mode of coexistence of autonomous human societies based on the unlimited will to act so as subject wants to do without any limitations of his activities... Culture is the mode of coexistence of autonomous human societies based on the most ancient testaments, customs, traditions etc of the highestly sacrified appearence... Civilisation is the mode of coexistence of autonomous human societies based on the reasoned or legitimated by social contracts, by profits, by expediency and so more constitutions, institutions etc... -/- Andrei Melnikov-Pechersky in his epic "In the Woods" says that there was a movement among the Old Believers in Russia, or a current that proclaimed Kostroma the new and, it seems, the only true Jerusalem, in an apocalyptic sense, of course, which in its spiritual scale was probably not inferior to the Bogomils, shakers, Mormons, or else and the whole Reformation in potential. In Western Europe, every more or less convex nuance of the history of a state or region (even if it is a small San Marino) is overgrown with almost a dozen institutions, not always state ones, by the way, in which almost every sneeze and step of very ambivalent historical subjects in a broad sense is studied. Especially in the young, but very pretentious America of the United States, which embodies all world justice. In our country, for example, even many leading humanitarian specialists do not realize the spiritual value of the Ipatievsky MONASTERY. The Russian writer Boris Shiryaev, who died quite a long time ago and in a very far abroad, devoted a special part of his documentary and artistic epic of wanderings "The Inextinguishable Lampada" to an entertaining and instructive, tragic fate of a kind of village monarchy in some Villages of the Kostroma province (I could not identify the area, and, frankly, I did not really try) in the early years The Soviet government. At the same time, all Russians learn about the French emperor Napoleon almost with their mother's milk how many percent of cyanide potassium was found in his hair, they reflect on Lermontov's "Airship" (probably, just not to "memorize" the imposed "Borodino" by heart). The events, of course, are incomparable, but the fact is significant. The outstanding national artist (if not to say a thinker of the Chesnyakov level) Grigory Pavlovich Kusochkin was glorified wherever, in whatever catalogues he was not included. Paris, London, New York, St. Petersburg, Moscow... To look at some smear of luminaries like Picasso or Modigliani, international tourist routes are organized in the restaurant toilet using the finest marketing technologies, and we did not even know Grigory Pavlovich by sight until, thank God, a series of TV shows on all Russian channels was dedicated to him in one gulp. Why is this happening? Is it a consequence of poverty or the result of the conscious policy of the ruling elite of the country and the world? The regions of the Kostroma Region are Austria, Switzerland, Bavaria, Armenia, Moldova, and Georgia... Georgia! I served in the army there. In this small but very great country, judging even by the appearance of its President Shevardnadze, although it is smaller than the Kostroma region, there are so many different, but Georgian-speaking peoples! Kakhetians, Meskhetians, Imereti, Iveretians, Mingrelians, Khevsurs... Adjarians (mostly Georgian-speaking Muslims) even have their own autonomy. And some peoples are not Georgian—speaking at all — South Ossetians, Abkhazians, Kurds, Armenians, Greeks, even Assyrians. In the Kostroma Region, and in any Russian "province" — not much less: there are plenty of the same Georgians or Armenians everywhere, quite moderate, loyal, and so on. Having, as a rule, their own officially registered associations within the framework of cultural autonomy. Well done! And Israel! He is the only one with all his "illegal" (and I am for the fact that every nation knows better where its ancestral lands are) territories half the size of the Kostroma region. The total number of Jews worldwide, according to the "Soviet Encyclopedic Dictionary" in 1987, is about 14 million. Meanwhile, the fate of Israel is being preoccupied (it is very instructive how he achieved this!) all the united nations of the world. In the Kostroma Region and its diaspora, it seems to everyone, and especially to its semi-migrant, Varangian leadership. I don't care if they build a public atomic bomb here in the form of a nuclear power plant or not. Because they do not know the value of this land, the greatness of its spirit. Kostroma is a holy land. I will immediately make a reservation that by Kostroma I mean not only the modern region, but the entire area that has ever historically been associated with Kostroma. The USSR is also a part of the great historical Russia. In this sense, even the entire era of the Russian Romanov Empire is the Kostroma region. Or: many toponymic objects of our native land are called mysteriously beautiful: Sharya, Shunga, Shekshema, Sholezhka, - we need to find out what kind of peoples — and where are they now? — we left such euphonious archetypal combinations, because these are our Kostromsky peoples, these are our Kostroma people. Or, say, the classic of American and world sociology Pitirim Alexandrovich Sorokin writes in his autobiographical scientific novel "The Long Way" that he studied at the Khrenovskaya (what a strong word!) teachers' seminary of Kostroma province, but in an administrative row for propaganda activities, gendarmes were taken by sledge to the prison of the city of Kineshma - is this not a fact for Kostroma, and primarily for him, local history, although Kineshma has long been attributed to the Ivanovo region, and Pitirim Alexandrovich is buried on the other side of the planet?! I have not the slightest doubt that Kostroma provided spiritual food, gave birth to and nurtured a huge intellectual diaspora with extremely valuable material on a national, global scale. And this is both in direct and indirect order, in the form of a chain reaction. Apparently, it is easy for an intelligent person to grow up in Kostroma, but it is impossible to live, and somewhere on the contrary. Therefore, it is not surprising that the geneticist academician D. K. Belyaev, who was born in the village of Protasov near Nerekhta, very close to Kostroma, glorified Moscow and Siberia with his discoveries and practical results, which immeasurably enriched the Soviet state treasury with foreign exchange income from the sale of the most valuable fur grown according to the biotechnology developed by him in a much shorter time than it usually turns out in nature. And in Kostroma, most likely, few people know who he is and what he is famous for. I will focus in more detail on one of the aspects of his great life. This happened back in the so-called pre-Perestroika times. In a series of his speeches, Dmitry Konstantinovich, based on the results of his and colleagues' research, emphasized, in his opinion, the determining role of the biological factor in shaping the content of human essence, of course, only in a philosophical, conceptual aspect. For some reason, this was opposed by a geneticist, as they say, persecuted at one time by the "senile" in selectionism (including human nature) by the Michurino-Lysenkoists, academician N. P. Dubinin, which personally remains incomprehensible to me until now. With a grateful curtsey to Academician Dubinin and his point of view, the famous French humanist, member of the Politburo of the French Communist Party Lucien Sav appeared on the pages of the Communist magazine. The material was clearly titled: "Problems are not only scientific, but also political." He very indecently attributed the views of academician Belyaev to "a reactionary ideology that tries to put genetics at its service, and more broadly, biology, in order to present all kinds of social inequalities of all kinds as inherent in nature itself"(1). I would like to see any ideology that does not try to "put this or that at its service," much less something worthwhile... A little later, the editorial of the Communist hit the "biologizers", and soon Dmitry Konstantinovich was gone. In short, it is only on the example of our fellow countrymen that you can write interesting, world-class essays on science and its history, but instead our scientists should fit their global potencies into a page and a half (good yet. if not entirely at their own expense), and then for at least three years to guess whether they will be published or not. Now it no longer surprises me how at one time, when, after reading the listener card I filled out, the sweetest girl from the IPKPON office at USU congratulated me for something. It turned out that the dean of the Faculty of Philosophy of USU, doctor, professor, Honored Scientist, and now academician Konstantin Niko-laevich Lyubutin is a countryman, Kostromsky, or rather Manturovsky by origin, as I write below in the notes — we are Kostromendors. To him, my fellow citizen in the most subtle micropatriotic dimensions, I owe a lot in my professional and social development, even in survival. Because that's how it often turns out: you can be born here, sometimes you can live here... It's very hard. Maybe the Kostroma origin of an outstanding Russian historian of philosophy, organizer of science and education, educator and friend of a galaxy of people devoted to the Motherland and the cause is not a great milestone in the history of the region, but name me at least a dozen Russian cities on the scale of Kostroma, from where such intellectual ones would come out into the world and light luminaries like ours. No matter who you take from the world significance of the pillars of national (and world, and foreign, - even the great Rabbi of Lubavitcher spent three years in exile in a Campfire, — I learned from some foreign voices) history, literature, culture in general, technology, science and so on - you will always find someone, which is very directly related to Kostroma. Pushkin, Lermontov, Gorky. Alexander Nikolaevich Ostrovsky, Pisarev, Uspensky, Katenin, Florensky, Savrasov, Kustodiev, Dyagilev, Mikhalkov, Alexander Alexandrovich Zinoviev; writers, artists, entrepreneurs, revolutionaries, inventors, politicians... In some world-famous for its classic Russian provincialism, Kologriv has been storing, figuratively speaking, unique sketches, if not of Leo-Nardo da Vinci himself, then certainly of his school, almost since the seventeenth century. And not only that. Nevertheless, the well-known Chukhloma to the Fatherland, in addition to thinkers of the rank of Rozanov and Zinoviev (where should domestic philosophers mature and not be born, if not in Chukhloma, Manturov or Khrenknowswhere?), gave an actor of amazing, national, originality — Mikhail Pugovkin, who can not be confused with anyone, a role that no one will repeat. (shrink)

Our Universe is dotted with over 100 billion galaxies, and each one contains roughly 100 billion stars. It is unclear how many planets are orbiting these stars, but it is certain that at least one of them has evolved life. In particular, there is a life form that has had the capacity and audacity to speculate about the origin of this vast universe2. Humans have been staring up into space for thousands of generations, to have a rational and coherent description (...) for the creation and evolution of the universe. Bhagat Kabir, a saint-poet of Sri Guru Granth Sahib raises a very pertinent question in this regard; ਓਇ ਜੁ ਦੀਸਹਿ ਅੰਬਰਿ ਤਾਰੇ ॥ ਕਿਨਿ ਓਇ ਚੀਤੇ ਚੀਤਨਹਾਰੇ ॥ ੧ ॥ ਕਹੁ ਰੇ ਪੰਡਿਤ ਅੰਬਰੁ ਕਾ ਸਿਉ ਲਾਗਾ ॥ ਬੂਝੈ ਬੂਝਨਹਾਰੁ ਸਭਾਗਾ ॥ (ਗਉੜੀ ਕਬੀਰ ਜੀ, ਸਗਗਸ, p 329) The stars which are seen in the sky , who is the painter who painted them? ||1|| Tell me, O Learned person, what is the sky attached to? Very fortunate is the person who knows this. (Gauree, Kabir Ji, SGGS, p 329) Gurbani offers an elegant explanation of the origin and creation of the universe, making it one of the greatest achievements of human intuition, intellect and spirit. It is the consequence of an insatiable curiosity, a fabulous imagination, keen observation and logical thinking. Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru, in his hymns of Jap(u), Aasa di Var, Sidh Gosht and Maru Sohilé, and Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh guru, in his hymns of Gauree Sukhmani have enunciated incredible understanding of the mystery of creation. It is fascinating to note that some of the concepts/ideas expressed in these hymns were not known to modern science until the eighteenth century. In this way, one can safely observe that the Sikh Gurus’ ideas were the forerunner of the modern scientific tradition. The ideas about the physical world (Creation), as presented in these hymns and discussed hereafter, might help us to confirm the above premise. (shrink)

Balance Theory: A Unified Solution to General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics -/- For over a century, physicists have struggled to reconcile General Relativity (GR) and Quantum Mechanics (QM) into a single unified framework. General Relativity explains the large-scale structure of the universe, governing stars, black holes, and the motion of galaxies. In contrast, Quantum Mechanics describes the microscopic world of particles and forces at the atomic and subatomic levels. These two pillars of modern physics work remarkably well in their respective (...) domains, but they fundamentally contradict each other. -/- A major challenge is that GR treats spacetime as a smooth and continuous fabric, while QM operates in a probabilistic, discrete world of quantum states and uncertainty. When scientists try to apply quantum rules to gravity, mathematical inconsistencies arise, leading to unsolvable infinities and singularities. The lack of a unified theory has prevented a deeper understanding of black holes, the early universe, and the fundamental nature of reality. -/- The Balance Theory Approach -/- Balance Theory proposes that the universe follows a fundamental principle of equilibrium, ensuring that physical laws remain consistent across all scales. Instead of treating gravity and quantum mechanics as separate forces, this approach suggests they emerge from a deeper law of balance that governs all interactions. -/- According to this perspective, nature constantly self-corrects to maintain balance. Just as biological systems regulate themselves to sustain life, and economic markets adjust supply and demand, the universe itself operates under a balancing principle that ensures coherence between the macroscopic and microscopic realms. -/- Gravity as a Balanced Phenomenon -/- In classical General Relativity, gravity is described as the warping of spacetime caused by massive objects. This model works extremely well in most cases, but it leads to paradoxes in extreme conditions, such as inside black holes or at the beginning of the universe. -/- Balance Theory suggests that gravity is not just a passive curvature of spacetime but an active force that maintains equilibrium between energy, space, and information. Instead of black holes collapsing into singularities—where density becomes infinite and physical laws break down—the balance principle predicts that an internal stabilizing force prevents such extremes. This would mean that inside a black hole, rather than a singularity, there exists a quantum core that maintains structural balance. -/- Quantum Mechanics as a Balancing Process -/- Quantum mechanics describes particles as existing in multiple states simultaneously until measured, a phenomenon known as superposition. When a measurement is made, the particle’s wavefunction “collapses” into a definite state, but the mechanism behind this collapse remains mysterious. -/- Balance Theory proposes that wavefunction collapse is not purely random, as conventional quantum mechanics suggests, but rather a natural balancing process. Instead of requiring an external observer to force a quantum system into one state, the system itself seeks equilibrium within its environment. This idea could help resolve long-standing questions in quantum physics, such as how and why measurement affects particles and whether reality exists independently of observation. -/- Bridging the Gap Between GR and QM -/- One of the key insights of Balance Theory is that gravity and quantum mechanics are not opposing forces but two expressions of the same universal balancing principle. In this view: -/- Gravity emerges as a large-scale balancing mechanism that prevents the universe from collapsing into chaos. -/- Quantum mechanics represents a small-scale balancing process that ensures fundamental particles interact in predictable ways. -/- If this principle is correct, then the unification of physics does not require exotic new dimensions (as in String Theory) or the quantization of spacetime itself (as in Loop Quantum Gravity). Instead, it requires a shift in perspective: understanding the universe as a dynamic, self-regulating system where balance is the fundamental law. -/- Predictions and Experimental Tests -/- Any scientific theory must make testable predictions that can be verified through observation or experiment. Balance Theory suggests several novel predictions: -/- 1. Black Holes Should Not Contain Singularities -/- If balance prevents infinite density, black holes should have a stable core rather than a singularity. -/- Future observations of black hole interiors, such as through gravitational wave patterns or high-resolution imaging, could provide evidence of this balance mechanism. -/- 2. Wavefunction Collapse Should Follow a Pattern -/- Instead of being purely random, wavefunction collapse should exhibit a hidden balance law. -/- Experiments in quantum optics, such as delayed-choice quantum erasers, could test whether collapse is guided by equilibrium rather than chance. -/- 3. Gravity Should Show Small Deviations at Extreme Scales -/- In extreme conditions, such as during black hole mergers, slight deviations from Einstein’s equations should appear due to quantum balance effects. -/- High-precision gravitational wave detectors could measure these deviations. -/- 4. There Should Be a Minimum Length Scale -/- If balance governs all forces, there should be a smallest possible length scale that prevents spacetime from dividing infinitely. -/- High-energy experiments, such as those at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), might reveal unexpected effects at ultra-small distances. -/- Implications for the Nature of Reality -/- If Balance Theory is correct, it would mean that the universe is not fundamentally random or chaotic but governed by an underlying principle of stability. This would challenge the traditional view that quantum mechanics is based solely on probability and uncertainty, suggesting instead that quantum behavior follows a deeper logic rooted in equilibrium. -/- It would also Imply that spacetime is not a fixed, unchanging backdrop but a dynamic entity that adapts to maintain balance. This could explain long-standing mysteries, such as why the expansion of the universe is accelerating or how information is preserved in black holes. -/- Conclusion -/- The search for a unified theory of physics has remained elusive for over a century, but Balance Theory offers a new perspective—one based on the idea that the universe maintains equilibrium at all levels, from the smallest quantum particles to the vast structure of spacetime itself. By treating gravity and quantum mechanics as different manifestations of the same balancing force, this approach provides a potential pathway toward unification. -/- If validated through experiment, Balance Theory could reshape our understanding of physics, resolving paradoxes and unlocking new insights into the nature of reality itself. The next steps involve rigorous testing, mathematical refinement, and collaboration with physicists across disciplines to explore whether this fundamental principle of balance can finally bridge the gap between Einstein’s relativity and the quantum world. -/- . (shrink)

When the density of the body becomes large enough, general relativity predicts the formation of a black hole. The neutron stars of about 1.4 solar masses and the black holes are the final stage for the evolution of the massive stars. Usually a black hole in a galaxy has played an important role in its formation and related cosmic structures. Such bodies provide an efficient mechanism for the emission of electromagnetic radiation and the formation of microquasars. Accretion can lead (...) to relativistic jets. General relativity allows the modeling of these phenomena, confirmed by observations. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.33569.15202 . (shrink)

-/- The Universal Law of Balance in Nature and Its Application to Cosmology -/- The universe, in all its vastness and complexity, follows fundamental principles that govern its formation, structure, and evolution. If the universal law of balance in nature, as formulated by Angelito Malicse, is truly a fundamental law, then it must apply to all physical systems—including cosmology. The cosmos operates through a delicate interplay of opposing forces, equilibrium states, and self-regulating processes. From the expansion of the universe to (...) the formation of galaxies, black holes, and even the quantum realm, we can see how the universe upholds a balance that sustains its existence. -/- The Big Bang and Cosmic Expansion: A Balanced Beginning -/- The Big Bang theory explains that the universe originated from an infinitely dense singularity and has been expanding ever since. This expansion is governed by finely tuned physical constants. If the rate of expansion had been slightly faster, matter would have dispersed too quickly for galaxies to form. If it had been slightly slower, gravitational collapse would have occurred early on. -/- This fine-tuning suggests a natural equilibrium that enables the formation of structured systems rather than chaos or premature collapse. It aligns with the universal law of balance, where natural forces regulate themselves to sustain stability and existence. The very fabric of the universe appears to have been designed to operate within a delicate range, ensuring its continued evolution. -/- Cosmic Inflation and Homeostasis in the Universe -/- During the first moments after the Big Bang, the universe underwent a brief but intense period of cosmic inflation, expanding exponentially faster than the speed of light. This process ensured that energy and matter were evenly distributed, leading to a homogeneous and isotropic universe on large scales. -/- This phenomenon mirrors biological homeostasis, where a system self-regulates to maintain stability. Just as a living organism adjusts internal conditions to sustain life, the universe adjusted its own expansion to ensure long-term structural balance. This aligns with the universal law of balance, demonstrating that even at the largest scale, self-regulation ensures stability. -/- Gravitational Balance in Galactic Formation -/- Galaxies and planetary systems form due to the interplay of gravitational attraction and rotational forces. Gravity pulls matter together, while angular momentum prevents collapse. This balance creates stable systems where stars, planets, and entire galaxies can persist for billions of years. -/- If gravitational forces were too strong, matter would collapse into dense objects too quickly. If too weak, galaxies would never form, and the universe would remain an empty void. This self-sustaining balance echoes the way decision-making works in human societies—where opposing forces (such as economic, social, and political pressures) must be weighed to maintain stability. The universe, much like human systems, thrives through equilibrium. -/- Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Opposing Forces in Equilibrium -/- Approximately 95% of the universe is composed of dark matter and dark energy, two mysterious components that shape cosmic evolution. Dark matter provides the gravitational glue that holds galaxies together, preventing them from flying apart. Dark energy, on the other hand, drives the accelerated expansion of space. -/- These two forces act in opposition, yet their interaction maintains the overall stability of the universe. If dark energy were too dominant, galaxies would tear apart. If dark matter were too dominant, the universe would collapse under its own gravity. This cosmic balance reflects the universal law of balance, where opposing forces must coexist in equilibrium to sustain existence. -/- Thermodynamic Equilibrium and Entropy: Order Within Disorder -/- The second law of thermodynamics states that entropy (disorder) increases over time. Left unchecked, the universe should become a chaotic, unstructured mess. Yet, within this increasing disorder, we see localized structures of order—galaxies, stars, planets, and even life itself. -/- This paradox suggests that while entropy governs the overall system, temporary balance allows complex structures to emerge and persist. Just as societal stability emerges from balancing chaos and order, the cosmos generates structure despite the drive toward disorder. This principle aligns with the universal law of balance, where even in a seemingly random environment, natural forces work to create structured, stable systems. -/- Black Holes and Information Balance -/- Black holes, some of the most extreme objects in the universe, consume matter and energy, seemingly erasing all information about what falls into them. However, modern physics suggests that information is not truly lost—it is preserved in some form, whether encoded on the event horizon (as suggested by the holographic principle) or through quantum processes. -/- This concept aligns with the universal law of balance because it suggests that even in the most extreme environments, information follows a conservation principle. Just as human actions have consequences that persist in various forms, the universe ensures that no energy or information truly disappears, maintaining a deeper cosmic equilibrium. -/- Quantum Cosmology: Balance at the Smallest Scales -/- At the smallest scales of reality, quantum mechanics governs the behavior of particles, where superposition and uncertainty play fundamental roles. In the early universe, quantum fluctuations helped seed the formation of galaxies. -/- These fluctuations demonstrate a balance between uncertainty and structure. Just as human decisions arise from multiple possibilities but follow natural constraints, the universe’s structure emerges from quantum uncertainty within governing physical laws. This suggests that even at the quantum level, the universe operates under a principle of balance. -/- Multiverse Theories and the Balance of Possibilities -/- Some theories suggest that our universe is just one of many in a multiverse, each with different physical laws. If this is true, then our universe may simply be one of the few that has achieved the right balance of forces to sustain structure and life. -/- This supports the idea that cosmic selection could function similarly to natural selection—only universes with stable laws of physics persist. This aligns with the universal law of balance, where systems that maintain equilibrium continue to exist, while those that fail to achieve balance dissolve into nonexistence. -/- Conclusion: A Universe Governed by Balance -/- From the grand scale of cosmic expansion to the microscopic realm of quantum fluctuations, the universe appears to follow the universal law of balance in nature. Every major phenomenon—whether it be the interplay of gravity and expansion, the self-regulation of galaxies, or the emergence of structured systems within entropy—reflects the principle that equilibrium is essential for existence. -/- If this law is truly fundamental, then it not only governs the universe but also human behavior, decision-making, and societal structures. The same balance that sustains galaxies and black holes also shapes civilizations, economies, and individual consciousness. -/- By understanding this universal principle, we can apply it to solve real-world problems. If leaders, scientists, and educators incorporate the law of balance into governance, economics, and education, it could lead to a more stable, sustainable, and just society—just as it has sustained the universe for billions of years. -/- . (shrink)

The Institutional Dictionary of Astronism is the cumulation of receptions between Cometan and the astronomical world during the Founding era (2013-2021). The publication of this very first full-length Institutional Dictionary of Astronism represents eight years of the development of Astronism from its inception to how it stands today in 2021. The publication of this dictionary also encapsulates Astronism exactly as it exists now and how Cometan conceives it by the end of the Founding era. This dictionary and its contents capture (...) what Astronism is now for posterity to look back on how this astronomical belief system will change as time progresses. Many of the words and definitions of this dictionary will alter as we enter the Establishment era and Astronism continues its progression in becoming world religion. However, what will not ever change is Cometan’s absolute devotion to the stars of the night sky and his discovery of their secrets through his receptions, personal inspirations, and his overall relationship with The Great Cosmos. -/- Covering all the major Astronist beliefs, practices, cultural elements, theories, branches of study, and historical events, A Dictionary of Astronism, also known as the Institutional Dictionary of Astronism, is published by the Astronist Institution through its subsidiary, Astral Publishing, to commemorate the end of the era of The Founding of Astronism. -/- The Founding of Astronism began exactly eight years on 1st July 2013 which sparked Cometan's ideations and indrucies and which afforded him the insight, knowledge, and vision to found a new religious movement, philosophy, spirituality and political ideology. As The Founding of Astronism, also simply known as the Founding era, comes to an end, the Astronist Institution wants to acknowledge the fundamental importance of this year period of the history of Astronism and to the wider history of religion, philosophy and spirituality as a whole. -/- The Dictionary of Astronism immortalises that commemorative spirit by providing thousands of definition entries of Astronist terms that have been authorised by Astronist Institution scholars for dissemination worldwide. This dictionary captures the most up-to-date understanding of what Astronism is and how it as a whole and its component parts should be defined. Enjoy this dictionary that emblematises Astronism and how this new religion has so far developed. (shrink)

Essays and documents surveying the post-communist architectural scene in the Czech Republic. - 1/ “Wild & Wilder” (1997) – A brief travelogue with comments on Kew Gardens, London, and Mies van der Rohe’s Villa Tugendhat (1930), Brno. 2/ “Angel City” (1999) – A short report on Jean Nouvel’s Golden Angel office tower in Smíchov, Prague. 3/ “Read & Weep: Scandal in Bohemia” (1999) – Essay on post-communist machinations within the architectural scene in the Czech Republic, including reports on: Jean Nouvel’s (...) Angel City and its critics; charges of “lite (postmodern) neo-functionalism” here and there; a cooked “open” competition for a proposed Kupka museum in an old mill on the island of Kampa (in the Vltava); a tourist-dodging transit through Josip Plečnik’s gardens at Prague Castle; and stories and legends regarding the Star Pavilion and oak wood at White Mountain. 4/ “The Body of the City” (2001) – Critique of Richard Meier and Partners’ proposed ECM Radio Plaza, a series of towers meant to complete an unfinished, communist-era “Rockefeller Center” in the Pankrác district of Prague. 5/ “Gnomic Works: The Sculptural Works of Kurt Gebauer” (2002) – Essay on the sculpture of Czech artist Kurt Gebauer with images from his exhibition in Zlín in 2001. 6/ “House of the Wind: May Day” (2004) – Prose poem written on May Day 2004 regarding wandering around Olšanské hřbitovy, a mostly 19th-century cemetery in the Žižkov district of Prague. 7/ “Architectural Eyewash” (2004) – An essay surveying: various complaints within the Czech architectural community regarding an outbreak of “architectural eyewash” in the 2004 Chamber of Architects’ Grand Prix competition; rumors and innuendo regarding a proposed Kupka museum on Kampa; complaints about Daniel Libeskind’s proposed Dalí House, Prague; etc. 8/ “Moravian Shadows” (2004) – Essay on “cultural shadows” in the context of Czech architecture, with a nod to Nietzsche's The Birth of Tragedy. 9/ The Near & The Far: Moravian Garden (2006) – Notes and discursuses on a very small, yet “immense” South Moravian country garden in Skryje, Czech Republic. (shrink)

Why Colonizing Mars is Essential for Humanity -/- Introduction -/- Since the dawn of civilization, humanity has been driven by exploration and the pursuit of knowledge. Today, as we face global challenges such as climate change, overpopulation, and resource depletion, the need for expansion beyond Earth has never been more urgent. Mars, our closest planetary neighbor, presents the best opportunity for human colonization. Establishing a permanent human presence on Mars is not merely a dream of science fiction—it is a necessity (...) for the long-term survival and advancement of our species. -/- The Need for a Planetary Backup -/- Throughout history, Earth has faced existential threats, from asteroid impacts to supervolcanic eruptions. Modern threats, such as nuclear war, climate change, and pandemics, further highlight the fragility of our civilization. A self-sustaining colony on Mars would serve as a backup for humanity, ensuring that life continues even in the face of catastrophe. Just as ancient civilizations migrated to new lands for survival, humans must now look beyond Earth to secure our future. -/- Advancing Scientific Knowledge -/- Mars offers a unique opportunity to expand our scientific understanding of the universe. Studying its geology, climate, and atmosphere can help scientists uncover the history of our solar system. Additionally, the search for microbial life on Mars could provide answers to one of humanity’s greatest questions: Are we alone in the universe? The discoveries made on Mars could reshape our understanding of life itself and provide insights into the potential habitability of other planets. -/- Technological Innovation -/- The challenges of colonizing Mars will drive technological advancements that will benefit humanity as a whole. To establish a sustainable colony, scientists and engineers must develop new solutions for life support, energy production, water recycling, and food cultivation in extreme environments. These innovations could lead to breakthroughs in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and robotics, with applications that improve life on Earth. Just as the space race of the 20th century accelerated technological progress, the push for Mars colonization could usher in a new era of scientific and engineering advancements. -/- Resource Utilization and Economic Opportunities -/- Mars has vast natural resources that could support a self-sustaining colony. Water, in the form of ice, could be extracted and used for drinking, farming, and fuel production. The planet’s atmosphere, rich in carbon dioxide, could be converted into oxygen and fuel for spacecraft. In the long term, mining operations on Mars could provide valuable metals and minerals, reducing dependence on Earth’s limited resources. The economic potential of Mars colonization could lead to new industries, job opportunities, and even interplanetary trade. -/- Inspiring Future Generations and Unifying Humanity -/- The Apollo Moon landings of the 20th century inspired generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers. A successful Mars colonization effort would be an even greater achievement, proving that humanity is capable of overcoming immense challenges. Furthermore, such a mission would require international collaboration, bringing together countries, scientists, and private industries in a shared vision for the future. A united effort to colonize Mars could serve as a powerful symbol of human cooperation and ingenuity. -/- Challenges and Solutions -/- Despite its potential, colonizing Mars presents significant challenges. The planet’s harsh environment, with extreme cold, high radiation levels, and a thin atmosphere, makes survival difficult. Transporting humans and supplies across millions of kilometers is costly and time-consuming, requiring months of space travel. Furthermore, maintaining a sustainable food and water supply on Mars is a complex problem that must be solved. -/- However, advancements in space travel, such as reusable rockets and nuclear propulsion, are making Mars missions more feasible. Scientists are developing innovative life support systems, underground habitats for radiation protection, and sustainable farming techniques for food production. With continued research and investment, these obstacles can be overcome, making a permanent human settlement on Mars a reality. -/- Mars as a Stepping Stone for Deep Space Exploration -/- Beyond Mars, humanity’s future may lie among the stars. Colonizing Mars is not just about securing a second home—it is about preparing for the next great leap in space exploration. A successful Mars colony could serve as a launchpad for missions to the outer planets, the asteroid belt, and even interstellar space. By proving that humans can survive and thrive beyond Earth, Mars colonization would open the door to exploring and settling the broader universe. -/- Conclusion -/- Colonizing Mars is not a luxury or a distant fantasy—it is a crucial step for the survival and progress of humanity. By establishing a presence on Mars, we can protect our species from existential threats, expand our scientific knowledge, drive technological innovation, and unlock economic opportunities. Although challenges remain, human ingenuity and determination have always pushed us to overcome obstacles. The journey to Mars will be difficult, but it is a necessary step in ensuring that humanity continues to thrive, not just on Earth, but among the stars. The question is no longer whether we should go to Mars, but how soon we can make it happen. -/- . (shrink)

The Future of Sex in a Type III Civilization -/- The Kardashev Scale, introduced by Russian astrophysicist Nikolai Kardashev, categorizes civilizations based on their ability to harness and utilize energy. A Type III civilization—the most advanced on this scale—would control energy at the galactic level, manipulating stars, planets, and even the fundamental forces of nature. With such immense technological mastery, every aspect of human existence would be transformed, including one of the most intimate and fundamental aspects of life: sex, relationships, (...) and reproduction. -/- As humanity advances toward a Type III civilization, biological limitations will fade, and new forms of intimacy, pleasure, and reproduction will emerge. From neural interfaces and virtual reality to post-biological love and artificial reproduction, the very concept of sex will be redefined, potentially making it unrecognizable to our current understanding. -/- 1. The Evolution of Physical Intimacy -/- Physical intimacy, as it exists today, relies on the limitations of the human body. In a Type III civilization, however, individuals may no longer be restricted to a single biological form. With bioengineering, cybernetic enhancements, and direct neural stimulation, sex would become a limitless experience, far beyond what is physically possible today. -/- A. Customizable Bodies & Sensory Expansion -/- With complete mastery over genetics, nanotechnology, and synthetic biology, people could modify their bodies for any kind of intimate experience. The ability to alter sensory perception, increase pleasure thresholds, or even create entirely new erogenous zones would make sexual experiences highly personalized. Some individuals might opt for completely synthetic bodies, designed solely for pleasure, while others might explore post-human or alien-inspired forms of intimacy. -/- B. Direct Neural Interfaces & Shared Consciousness -/- Rather than relying on physical interaction, future technology may allow for direct neural linking, where partners share thoughts, emotions, and sensations in real-time. Such interfaces could create an experience where two (or more) individuals achieve a level of intimacy that transcends physical barriers—allowing them to experience each other’s consciousness as if it were their own. -/- C. Virtual & Simulated Reality -/- A Type III civilization would have full mastery over virtual worlds and simulated realities, making it possible to experience sex in ways beyond human comprehension. Entirely digital relationships could form, where individuals engage in immersive, hyper-realistic sexual encounters with AI partners, holographic beings, or uploaded consciousnesses. These experiences could be indistinguishable from physical reality or even surpass it, allowing for limitless exploration of desires. -/- 2. Love and Relationships in a Post-Biological Era -/- As humanity moves beyond its biological origins, traditional forms of love and relationships may become obsolete. Emotional connections will still exist, but their nature may change drastically. The concept of monogamy, exclusivity, and even the idea of “human” relationships may evolve into something far more fluid and expansive. -/- A. Post-Biological Love & Digital Consciousness -/- A Type III civilization may not be composed solely of biological humans. Instead, there may be uploaded consciousnesses, sentient AIs, and hybrid entities that exist purely as digital minds. Love could transcend the need for a physical body, allowing for relationships between entirely digital beings or even between human and AI minds. -/- B. Polymorphic & Multi-Dimensional Relationships -/- With extended lifespans—or even immortality—relationships might evolve beyond fixed, long-term commitments. Instead of monogamy, individuals could engage in fluid, multi-dimensional relationships, where connections change over centuries or across different realities. Romantic and sexual relationships may no longer be constrained by societal norms, but rather dictated by personal preference, emotional compatibility, and shared experiences. -/- C. Interstellar & Interspecies Relationships -/- In a galactic civilization, humanity may not be alone. Encounters with other intelligent species could lead to interstellar relationships, with entirely new forms of intimacy developing between different life forms. This could raise profound ethical and biological questions: How would reproduction work? Would consciousness itself be compatible between species? The possibilities are vast, and the definition of “love” could expand in ways we cannot yet imagine. -/- 3. The Future of Reproduction -/- Sex, as it exists today, serves both pleasure and reproduction. But in a Type III civilization, natural reproduction may become obsolete. With artificial reproduction, genetic engineering, and digital consciousness transfer, the very act of creating new life would become a technological process. -/- A. Synthetic Wombs & Designer Offspring -/- Instead of traditional pregnancy, synthetic wombs could allow for complete control over the gestation process, ensuring that offspring are free from genetic diseases and optimized for intelligence, longevity, or even specific personality traits. Parents might design their children with customized genetics, choosing features that best suit their desired outcomes. -/- B. Consciousness Cloning & AI Offspring -/- Rather than being born biologically, future individuals may come into existence via consciousness transfer or digital cloning. A person’s mind could be copied, merged, or combined with another consciousness to create a new, unique being. This would make traditional reproduction unnecessary, as entirely new forms of “birth” would emerge through digital evolution. -/- C. Asexual & Post-Reproductive Beings -/- As intelligence moves beyond biological needs, reproduction itself may become irrelevant. Post-human entities might exist without gender, physical bodies, or reproductive urges, focusing instead on intellectual, emotional, or spiritual evolution. This could lead to a society where sex and reproduction are optional experiences rather than necessities. -/- 4. Ethical & Social Implications -/- With such drastic changes, new ethical dilemmas would arise. Would AI partners have rights? Should digital beings be considered “alive”? How would consent work in simulated realities? These are just a few of the complex questions that a Type III civilization would need to address. -/- A. The Rights of Digital Beings -/- If AI or uploaded consciousnesses become sentient, should they have the same rights as biological humans? Could an AI “refuse” to engage in intimacy, or would their programmed nature create ethical concerns regarding free will? -/- B. Cultural Diversity in a Galactic Civilization -/- With multiple species, AI entities, and human-offshoots existing together, different cultures would have wildly different perspectives on sex and relationships. Navigating these differences could lead to new forms of ethics, laws, and social structures that govern interstellar intimacy. -/- Conclusion: The End of Sex as We Know It? -/- A Type III civilization would not only revolutionize technology and society but would also completely redefine sex, love, and reproduction. Physical limitations would disappear, intimacy would become a matter of personal choice, and relationships could take on entirely new forms. Whether through neural linking, virtual pleasure, designer offspring, or digital consciousness, sex in a Type III civilization might evolve into something that is unrecognizable to humans today. -/- The real question is: Would sexuality still matter in a post-biological future? Or would humanity, in its pursuit of higher intelligence and interstellar expansion, leave behind the very concept of sex altogether? -/- . (shrink)

In 2001 soon after the Asian Crises of 1997-1998, the DotcomBubble, 9/11, the Enron crises triggered a fraud crisis in Wall Street that impacted the market to the core. Since then scandals such as the Lehman Brothers and WorldCom in 2007-2008 and the Great Recession have surpassed it, Enron still remains one of the most important cases of fraudulent accounting. In 2000’s even though the financial industry had become highly regulated, deregulation of the energy industry allowed companies to place bets (...) on future prices. At the peak of the dotcom bubble Enron was named as a star innovator but when the dotcom bubble burst, Enron’s plan to build high speed internet did not flourish and investors started to realize losses. Furthermore, the financial losses of the operations were hid using the market to market accounting technique instead of book value and using special purpose entities to hide debt. The root cause that was identified as a company with a toxic corporate culture focused on officer compensation rather than social responsibility and hence faulty leadership. Is it possible then that; ethical accounting practices, social responsibility and ethics all become inferior goods as income rises in an ‘irrationally exuberant’era? (shrink)

Epitome The Universe The Universe farther glimmerings isn’t a distant fringe that comes to fruition. Though, concerned travelers, emissaries of the light age. Thence, here and now, in a mo, beyond and obscured, therein spanned, is the archetype of the Universe early energetic dark age. Martin B.J. Thibault January 2021 -/- It could be worth considering the hypothesis that the dark age Universe, presently behind about 13.8 billiards light years, “is matter densely populated as much as the light age Universe”, (...) but not yet illuminated, still in the dark age into the infrared spectrum of the black young stars era, 13.8 billiards years ago and beyond. Martin J. B. Thibault 2018 . (shrink)

The concept and usage of the word 'metric' within General Relativity is briefly described. The early work of Roy Kerr led to his original 1963 algebraic, rotating metric. This discovery and his subsequent recollection in 2008 are summarised as the motivation for this article. Computer algebra has confirmed that nominal transformations of this early metric can generate further natural algebraic metrics. The algebra is not abstract, nor advanced, and these metrics have been overlooked for many years. The 1916 metric due (...) to Schwarzschild misled Kerr into seeking a similar metric for rotation. The philosophy of astrophysics for Penrose, Hawking and others would have been very different had they used the two lost metrics. (shrink)

Observational astronomy is plagued with selection effects that must be taken into account when interpreting data from astronomical surveys. Because of the physical limitations of observing time and instrument sensitivity, datasets are rarely complete. However, determining specifically what is missing from any sample is not always straightforward. For example, there are always more faint objects (such as galaxies) than bright ones in any brightness-limited sample, but faint objects may not be of the same kind as bright ones. Assuming they are (...) can lead to mischaracterizing the population of objects near the boundary of what can be detected. Similarly, starting with nearby objects that can be well observed and assuming that objects much farther away (and sampled from a younger universe) are of the same kind can lead us astray. Demographic models of galaxy populations can be used as inputs to observing system simulations to create “mock” catalogues that can be used to characterize and account for multiple, interacting selection effects. The use of simulations for this purpose is common practice in astronomy, and blurs the line between observations and simulations; the observational data cannot be interpreted independent of the simulations. We will describe this methodology and argue that astrophysicists have developed effective ways to establish the reliability of simulation-dependent observational programs. The reliability depends on how well the physical and demographic properties of the simulated population can be constrained through independent observations. We also identify a new challenge raised by the use of simulations, which we call the “problem of uncomputed alternatives.” Sometimes the simulations themselves create unintended selection effects when the limits of what can be simulated lead astronomers to only consider a limited space of alternative proposals. (shrink)

Chenyang Li argues, in an article originally published in Hypatia, that the ethics of care and Confucian ethics constitute similar approaches to ethics. The present paper takes issue with this claim. It is more accurate to view Confucian ethics as a kind of virtue ethics, rather than as a kind of care ethics. In the process of criticizing Li's claim, the distinctiveness of care ethics is defended, against attempts to assimilate it to virtue ethics.

This paper explores the generally overlooked relevance of an important contemporary debate in mainstream epistemology to philosophers working within ethics on questions concerning moral knowledge. It is argued that this debate, between internalists and externalists about the accessibility of epistemic justification, has the potential to be both significantly influenced by, and have a significant impact upon, the study of moral knowledge. The moral sphere provides a particular type of strong evidence in favour of externalism, and mainstream epistemologists might benefit from (...) paying attention to this fact. At the same time, the terrain of moral epistemology (approached as a sub-field of metaethics) needs to be reshaped by the realisation that externalists can steal the thunder of intuitionists when it comes to knowledge constituted by seemingly self-evident beliefs.1. (shrink)

This paper is a response to two sets of published criticisms of the 'Reasons as Evidence’ thesis concerning normative reasons, proposed and defended in earlier papers. According to this thesis, a fact is a normative reason for an agent to Φ just in case this fact is evidence that this agent ought to Φ. John Broome and John Brunero have presented a number of challenging criticisms of this thesis which focus, for the most part, on problems that it appears to (...) confront when it comes to the topic of the weighing of reasons. Our paper responds to all of the criticisms that these critics have provided, shedding fresh light on this interesting topic in the process. (shrink)

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a two level account of moral thinking that, unlike other accounts, does justice to three very plausible propositions that seem to form an inconsistent triad: (1) People can be morally virtuous without the aid of philosophy. (2) Morally virtuous people non-accidentally act for good reasons, and work out what it is that they ought to do on the basis of considering such reasons. (3) Philosophers engaged in the project of normative ethics are (...) not wasting their time when they search after highly general moral principles which could not be discovered or be justifiably accepted through non-philosophical thinking, and which specify the good reasons that virtuous people act on, as well as provide a criterion or criteria for determining what it is that people ought to do. (shrink)

Joseph Raz’s much discussed service conception of practical authority has recently come under attack from Stephen Darwall, who proposes that we instead adopt a second- personal conception of practical authority.1 We believe that the best place to start understanding practical authority is with a pared back conception of it, as simply a species of normative authority more generally, where this species is picked out merely by the fact that the normative authority in question is authority in relation to action, rather (...) than belief. We do not wish to deny that there might be properties of practical authority (as distinct from the species of authority that is concerned with belief) that are peculiar to it, but, unlike both Raz and Darwall, we do not believe that such features play a role in defining or delimiting practical authority. (shrink)

In this paper, we argue for a particular informative and unified analysis of normative reasons. According to this analysis, a fact F is a reason to act in a certain way just in case it is evidence that one ought to act in that way. Similarly, F is a reason to believe a certain proposition just in case it is evidence for the truth of this proposition. Putting the relatively uncontroversial claim about reasons for belief to one side, we present (...) several arguments in favor of our analysis of reasons for action. We then turn to consider a series of objections to the analysis. We conclude that there are good reasons to accept the analysis and that the objections do not succeed. (shrink)

This paper analyzes the ethical themes and theory portrayals by particular characters in Star Trek: Into Darkness. It is concluded that the film can be understood as explicating the pros and cons of both "male" and "female" ethical perspectives, and that a comprehensive understanding of morality requires some synthesis of both perspectives.

Science fiction fandoms tend to contain significant numbers of fans who feel angry and resentful about the handling of the franchise they are fans of, because of the stories the franchises owners have told. The paper addresses the question of when, if ever, such anger and resentment are justified. Special attention will be paid to Star Trek fandom, but other fandoms will be considered, including those for Star Wars and Doctor Who. Various proposed justifications for anger and resentment (...) will be considered, including that franchise owners have misled fans about the stories they would tell, have wasted opportunities to produce good art, have reduced the value of older art, have engaged in a form of cultural appropriation by repurposing old characters, have caused needless offense of a sort akin to the offense of religious sensibilities, have offended against the principle of utility, and have taken advantage of unjust copyright laws. The paper does not champion a conclusion about when, if ever, fan anger and resentment are justified. However, it is concluded that, contrary to what is often assumed, it is not obvious that fan anger and resentment are always unjustified, and so fan anger and resentment cannot always be dismissed out of hand. (shrink)

Comparative religion scholar Thomas Berry’s influential concept of “Earth jurisprudence” has been helpfully elaborated in three principal books. My first section identifies four of their common themes, deriving therefrom an implicit narrative: (1) the basis of ecology is autopoiesis, which (2) originally generated human communities and Indigenous vernacular laws, which were (3) later reasserted by forest defenders who fought to create the Magna Carta’s “Charter of the Forest,” which is (4) now championed globally by the Indian physicist and eco-activist Vandana (...) Shiva’s Earth Democracy movement. My next three sections identify mutually exclusive elements of the three books, deriving the following alternative narrative: self-conscious new dancing rituals (Cullinan) could empower an historically informed reconstruction of private property (Burdon) via commons-based vernacular law (Weston and Bollier). And my conclusion offers one template for such a strategy, namely a new environmental variation on my dancing-poetic conception of legal justice, christened “emerald star-law.”. (shrink)

In 1966 Gene Roddenberry, then a relatively unknown TV writer, created what was to become a cultural sensation. From cell phones and tablets, to MRI machines and medical jet injectors, Star Trek has undoubtedly anticipated much of the technology that we take for granted today. Moreover, the disagreements, fights and jokes between Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Dr Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy (DeForest Kelley) and Mr Spock (Leonard Nimoy) were expertly crafted for dramatic impact. But I’m not writing this to confess (...) to you my obsessive infatuation with the Star Trek universe. Instead I want to discuss how the beliefs and practices of Vulcans like Spock are similar to those of the Stoic school of philosophy. (shrink)

This paper presents a new semantics for the weak relevant logic DW that makes the role of the infamous Routley star more explicable. Central to this rewriting is combining aspects of both the American and Australian plan for understanding negations in relevance logics.

Eliminativism is a position most readily associated with the eliminative materialism of the Churchlands, denying that there are such things as propositional states. This position has created much controversy, despite the fact that intentionality has long been seen as perhaps the core problem for naturalistic philosophy. There is a more radical interpretation of eliminativism, however, denying not only mental states, such as beliefs and desires, but also intentionality (i.e., aboutness) on a global level. This position traces its contemporary origin back (...) to Quine, but has generally been assumed to undermine naturalism or, worse, to be incoherent by the majority of philosophers who maintain that there clearly are things or mental states that are about others. In a recent paper, Hutto and Satne (2015a) offer an update that tries to revive John Haugeland’s baseball analogy from his influential 1990 review paper The Intentionality All-Stars on the state of the game to argue that the failure of Neo-Cartesians, Neo- Behaviorists, and Neo-Pragmatists should urge us to make them work together to naturalize content and “win the game.” But Hutto and Satne misunderstand what the game is ultimately about. The goal of the Intentionality All-Stars is not to naturalize content against eliminativism but to defend a naturalist “thirdperson” view of the problem against first-person phenomenalists. For this goal, a naturalist defense of global content eliminativism would equally enable them to emerge victorious. Revisiting Haugeland, I will offer my own analysis of the current state of play to argue that global content eliminativism has not received sufficient attention and deserves a more prominent place in the debate than it currently occupies. (shrink)

In a new paper in recent issue of this journal (PSTJ), Prof. M. Pitkanen describes a solar system model inspired by spiral galaxies. While we appreciate his new approach, we find it lacks substantial discussion on the nature of vortices and chirality in galaxy. Therefore we submit a viewpoint that Gross-Pitaevskii model can be a more complete description of both solar system and also spiral galaxies, especially taking into account the nature of chirality and vortices in galaxies. In this (...) article, we also hope to bring out some correspondence among existing models, so we discuss shortly: the topological vortice approach, Burgers equation in the light of KAM theory, and the Cantorian Navier-Stokes approach. Of course, this short article is far from being complete. We hope further investigation can be done around this line of approach. Aim of this paper: With this article, we hope to begin a healthy dialogue with Prof. M. Pitkanen, especially on his solar system model, since we also believe that he also support “evidence-based physics.” Limitation: In this paper we only discuss Pitkanen’s solar system model, we don’t discuss his other papers in a recent issue of PSTJ. (shrink)

The first degree entailment (FDE) family is a group of logics, a many-valued semantics for each system of which is obtained from classical logic by adding to the classical truth-values true and false any subset of {both, neither, indeterminate}, where indeterminate is an infectious value (any formula containing a subformula with the value indeterminate itself has the value indeterminate). In this paper, we see how to extend a version of star semantics for the logics whose many-valued semantics lack indeterminate (...) to star semantics for logics whose many-valued semantics include indeterminate. The equivalence of the many-valued semantics and star semantics is established by way of a soundness and completeness proof. The upshot of the novel semantics in terms of the applied semantics of these logics, and specifically infectiousness, is explored, settling on the idea that infectiousness concerns ineffability. (shrink)

This article introduces some concepts that help exploring the ontological import of universal logic. It studies the notions of an antilogic and counterlogic associated to each logic and shows some of their properties. It presents the notion of galaxy, as the class of possible worlds compatible with a given logic.We explore some consequences of these developments.

“Black Star” music video was released two days before Bowie’s death. It bears various implications of dying and the notion of mortality is both literal and metaphorical. It is highly autobiographical and serves as a theatrical stage for Bowie to act both as a music performer and as a self-conscious human being. In this paper, we discuss the signs of mortality in Bowie’s “Black Star” music video-clip. We focus on video’s cinematic techniques and codes, on its motivic elements (...) and on its narrative in relation with music, lyrics, characters, and gestures. We also discuss the video’s intertextual references and the broader signification of the black star figure. We adopt a quasi-semiotic approach considering “Black Star” music video-clip as a text which can be investigated through its signs, codes, and conventions of the musical, visual, and cinematic languages as well. Our interdisciplinary tools derive from visual semiotics and audiovisual analysis models, without leaving outside Bowie’s musical-artistic and personal history. As it turns out, Bowie created a video clip that is philosophical in nature and poetic in structure, preserving the role of protagonist. With the visuals creating a psychedelic atmosphere, the lyrics often are heard as a personal confession. They both generate cognitive and emotional responses that influence the way the viewers-listeners may experience, decompose, and interpret Bowie’s artistic endeavor bridging life and death. (shrink)

It seems possible to see a star that no longer exists. Yet it also seems right to say that what no longer exists cannot be seen. We therefore face a puzzle, the traditional answer to which involves abandoning naïve realism in favour of a sense datum view. In this article, however, I offer a novel exploration of the puzzle within a naïve realist framework. As will emerge, the best option for naïve realists is to embrace an eternalist view of (...) time, and claim that in the relevant case, one sees a still existent star‐stage located somewhere in the distant past. (shrink)

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, education was interrupted. To continue offering high-quality education led to a dramatic transition away from face-to-face instruction and to blended learning. However, modular distance learning, as one of the adaptable learning modes, was chosen by most parents. Hence, this study seeks to determine the role of parents in the effectiveness of modular distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic era, ascertain whether there is a relationship between the parents’ roles and their backgrounds, determine whether there is (...) a relationship between the parents’ backgrounds and the children’s academic performance and determine whether the child’s educational performance was related to the role of the parents. A survey questionnaire was used to acquire information on the parents’ profiles and the role they played or did not play. Mean, frequency count, and Spearman correlation were used to analyze the data. Results showed a relationship between parents’ profiles and roles in their child’s academic achievement. The children’s academic performance in modular distance learning is boosted, mainly if the parents work and earn a higher income. Modular distance learning is effective when parents act as friendly teachers and motivators for their children and are employed in either public or private agencies. -/- . (shrink)

Paper presented in East-West Symposium on Science, Philosophy and Religion, Society for Asian and Comparative Philosophy Meeting with Australasian Association of Philosophy Annual Conference, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, July 1999.

Sólo con agradecimiento puede uno repasar años decisivos transcurridos en una Universidad como la de Navarra; con un agradecimiento profundo por el bien que la Universidad misma representa y por la compañía en ella de maestros y condiscípulos que siguen siendo –incluso más hoy que en el pasado– fuente de inspiración y estímulo permanente.