Software Cosmos
by Hugh Matlock
in response to the question:
“It from Bit or Bit from It?”
This is an essay that weaves 13 years of research by Hugh Matlock.
He entered the 2013 Essay Contest sponsored by
FQXI-Fundamental Questions Institute
EXPLORING THE FOUNDATIONS AND BOUNDARIES OF PHYSICS AND COSMOLOGY
FQXi catalyzes, supports, and disseminates research on questions at the foundations of physics and cosmology, particularly new frontiers and innovative ideas integral to a deep understanding of reality, but unlikely to be supported by conventional funding sources.
Essay Abstract
To decide the question “It from Bit or Bit from It?” we first describe a software simulation architecture for the cosmos. After refining the model using ideas from physics, we consider whether its operation is consistent with astronomical observation. A test is suggested, and carried out, for determining whether we now reside within such a system. The result will give us an opportunity to reflect on the insights available from ancient philosophies and finally to answer the question with another aphorism.
Author’s Bio
Hugh Matlock is a software architect and independent researcher. He became a programmer in high school and enjoyed simulating Conway’s Game of Life in 1972 and Von Neumann’s self-reproducing universal constructor the next year. He later managed the New Architecture Group at The Source designing and implementing online services. After over thirty years as a professional software developer and entrepreneur, he has been engaged in independent research for the last decade. He has a B.A. in Mathematics from Dartmouth College.
from their website.
Please read before Oct 31st 2013 & give him your public rating.
Comments
Ralph Waldo Walker III wrote on Aug. 4, 2013 @ 02:24 GMTHi Hugh,I found your essay to be deep, insightful, and very well-rounded. In particular, I was struck by your breadth of knowledge of physics combined with your reach outside the field. You are exceptionally articulate and well-rounded.
I also liked the quotes you interspersed throughout. Well done!
I believe you and John Wheeler are correct; we live in a participatory universe of which software is an integral part. For all of these reasons, I give you very high marks!
Best of luck to you!
Sincerely,
Ralph
Author Hugh Matlock replied on Aug. 4, 2013 @ 03:00 GMT
Hi Ralph,Thank you so much for your comment!
As the essay is currently in 36th place in the community rankings, I am not sure it will get to be considered in the next stage, but I hope so.
In any case, the contest has enabled me to learn about some very interesting ideas and has pushed forward my research in several directions. So it has been well worthwhile in any case.
Hugh
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