I’m excited to share a thought-provoking experiment that delves into the realms of theoretical physics and philosophy, exploring the intriguing possibility of superluminal (faster-than-light) information transmission using shadows. Check out the full details of my thought experiment on OSF.

The Thought Experiment: Shadows and Superluminal Causality

Imagine a vast board extending over millions of miles with two distinct paths, Path A and Path B, each corresponding to different actions, Action X and Action Y. In this experiment, shadows are the chosen medium. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Setup: The board has two paths (A and B) linked to two actions (X and Y). Shadows can move along these paths without carrying mass or energy.
2. Decision Point: At one end of the board, I choose to move either Shadow 1 toward Path A or Shadow 2 toward Path B. This decision is the initial cause in the causal chain.
3. Observation Points: At the far end of the board, observers are positioned at the destinations of Paths A and B, ready to trigger the corresponding actions (X or Y) upon detecting the shadow.
4. Superluminal Movement: Due to the large scale of the setup, the shadow’s edge can move across the board at a rate exceeding the speed of light. Shadows, being absences of light, are not bound by physical constraints like mass or energy, allowing them to “move” faster than light.
5. Outcome: The shadow reaches the designated destination, and the observer triggers the corresponding action. This creates a scenario where a cause (the decision to move a shadow) results in an effect (the triggered action) seemingly faster than light could travel the same distance.

Why It Matters

This thought experiment challenges some of the most fundamental concepts in physics and philosophy, offering several important implications:

1. Redefining the Speed of Light (c): Traditionally, the speed of light is the ultimate speed limit for information or material transmission. This experiment suggests that non-physical entities like shadows could convey information faster than light, prompting a re-evaluation of this fundamental constant.
2. Expanding the Nature of Causality: Our current understanding of causality relies on a direct, physical link between cause and effect, constrained by the speed of light. By using shadows, this experiment proposes that causality can be established through non-physical means, broadening our definition of how cause and effect relationships can occur.
3. New Forms of Information Transmission: Information theory typically involves physical signals (particles or waves) that carry information. Shadows, which do not have mass or energy, challenge this notion by suggesting new forms of indirect information transmission that bypass traditional physical constraints.
4. Philosophical Implications: This experiment touches on deep philosophical questions about the nature of reality, information, and communication. It encourages us to think about causality and information in more abstract terms, potentially leading to new philosophical insights.
5. Inspiring Future Research: Such bold ideas inspire further exploration and experimentation, encouraging scientists and philosophers to push the boundaries of our understanding. This could lead to new models, technologies, and a richer dialogue about the nature of the universe.

Conclusion

By proposing a scenario where shadows can establish superluminal causality, this thought experiment challenges long-held beliefs and opens up exciting new possibilities. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of creative thinking in advancing our knowledge and understanding of the universe. Whether in theoretical physics, information theory, or philosophy, exploring these bold ideas helps drive progress and inspire innovation.

For a deeper dive into this thought experiment, read my full post on OSF.