Exploring Spacetime Emergence from the Quantum Level

Dear Colleagues,

It has long been recognized that quantum theory seems to be in tension with certain aspects of relativity theory, although Shimony observed that there is a form of “peaceful coexistence” in that quantum theory disallows faster-than-light controllable signaling (i.e., transfers of energy). This Special Issue explores the possibility that quantum theory and relativity describe distinctly different aspects or domains of physical reality, yet which are ultimately reconcilable. In particular, the spacetime construct might be viewed as a structure that is emergent from the quantum level. Since emergence is a process that implies a directional component, and thus some form of irreversibility, consideration of spacetime emergence could break new ground in understanding time-asymmetrical processes such as those described by thermodynamics.

This possibility raises intriguing questions, such as:

• What is the relation between the quantum level and the spacetime level?
• Might the arrow of time emerge from the quantum level along with the spacetime construct? If so, does “measurement” play a role in this emergence?
• What sorts of correspondence (or other) principles would reconcile local spacetime processes with the apparently nonlocal quantum level?
• Might consideration of spacetime emergence lead to a novel approach to a theory of quantum gravity?

Dr. Ruth E. Kastner
Guest Editor

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