Is It Possible for Alternate Universes Where Mathematics Was Discovered Earlier?

Humans have existed in this universe for a few hundred thousand years, but the universe itself has been around for over 13 billion years. While writing, an essential tool for communication and record-keeping, has only existed for a few thousand years, evidence suggests that mathematics has played a crucial role in human evolution. Arithmetical calculations have been observed in hominids, as seen in tools, clothing, and jewelry that require counting and basic mathematical understanding.

But what if mathematics could be found elsewhere in the universe or in alternate universes? Could there be other biological species that developed mathematics earlier than humans, or even advanced mathematical systems on other planets in our universe? While these ideas are interesting, they remain speculative and not backed by empirical evidence. However, let us explore these possibilities in the realm of theoretical physics and astronomy.

Theoretical Possibilities

The concept of alternate universes, or multiverses, is a fascinating area of theoretical physics. Some theories suggest that there could be countless universes, each with its own set of physical laws and natural constants. If mathematics were a fundamental aspect of reality, it is conceivable that it could have evolved in a different way or at a different time in these alternate universes.

Mathematics as a Human Invention

One of the most compelling arguments against the discovery of mathematics in alternate universes is the idea that mathematics is a human invention, not a discovery. This perspective is based on the notion that mathematical principles and structures are created by human minds to describe the patterns and relationships in the natural world. Mathematics, in this sense, is a tool that we have developed to understand and manipulate our environment.

The argument that mathematics is an invention rather than a discovery is supported by the fact that there are different mathematical systems and notations in various cultures and historical periods. The existence of diverse mathematical approaches suggests that mathematics is not a fixed and universal cosmic truth but a human creation tailored to specific purposes.

Challenging the Human Invention Narrative

While the majority of mathematicians and scientists support the invention narrative, there are dissenting voices. The FQXi (Foundational Questions Institute) essay contest in April 2015 featured a paper by Peter Jackson titled “The Red/Green Sock Trick: Can Mathematics Demystify Nature?” This essay explored the possibility that mathematics might not just be a tool for describing nature but a fundamental aspect of reality itself.

Jackson's paper argued that the mathematical structure of the universe is so precise and unambiguous that it suggests a pre-existing system, rather than a human invention. Critics of this view counter that the precision of mathematics could be a reflection of the human mind's logical structure and not an inherent property of the universe.

Supporting Evidence and Theoretical Frameworks

There is no empirical evidence to support the idea that mathematics was discovered in alternate universes. However, some theoretical frameworks provide a basis for exploring the idea. For instance, string theory, which posits the existence of extra dimensions, opens up the possibility of multiple universes with different physical laws. If these universes exist, it could mean that mathematics might have evolved in different ways and at different times.

Additionally, the anthropic principle, which suggests that the universe is the way it is because humans exist to observe it, can be used to argue that the universe must be structured in a way that allows for mathematical discovery. This principle supports the idea that the fundamental laws of the universe are compatible with the development of mathematics, but it does not rule out the possibility of alternate universes where mathematics might have a different form or origin.

Conclusion

While the possibility of alternate universes where mathematics was discovered earlier is theoretically interesting, it remains speculative and unsupported by empirical evidence. Mathematics is widely regarded as a human invention, but the debate continues. Future theoretical developments and experimental evidence may shed more light on this intriguing question, but for now, the idea of alternate universes with different mathematical systems remains in the realm of theoretical possibilities.

The exploration of these ideas not only challenges our understanding of mathematics but also our understanding of the universe itself. As our knowledge of physics and mathematics continues to evolve, so too will our theories about the nature of reality, including the possibility of alternate universes and the origins of mathematics.