Starships and Spinoza

TL;DR

The paper explores the theoretical and practical implications of creating small artificial black holes using lasers, focusing on energy applications, quantum gravity challenges, universe creation, and societal impacts.

Contribution

It presents a comprehensive analysis of the technical, theoretical, and societal aspects of artificial black hole technology and its profound implications.

Findings

Potential of ABHs as powerful energy sources

Challenges in quantum gravity theory posed by ABHs

Implications for universe creation and societal change

Abstract

We discuss a proposal to make small artificial black holes (ABH's) using a huge laser. Because of Hawking radiation, they would be extremely powerful energy sources. We investigate the technical problems of using them to make power plants and starships. The first suggestion is due to Hawking. Next, we consider what challenges the ABH proposal would pose for a future quantum theory of gravity. The form of a theory which would allow us to compute the necessary corrections to classical theory is considered. It is widely believed that every black hole produces a new baby universe on the other side of its singularity. If this is true, ABH technology will involve future humanity in the creation process of universes. Finally, we ponder the effects that the ABH proposal would have on the culture of a future society, particularly if the baby universe theory is correct. The changes in our economic life and understanding of our role in the cosmos would be so profound as to have a "spiritual" aspect.