Chronogenesis, Cosmogenesis and Collapse

TL;DR

This paper presents a quantum model for the emergence of time and space, emphasizing the role of state vector collapse in correlating universe size with quantized time, and explores interpretational issues.

Contribution

It introduces a simple quantum framework for the onset of time and space, highlighting the necessity of collapse for consistent interpretation.

Findings

Collapse links universe size with quantized time eigenvalues

Superposition of 'instant' states models the onset of time

Discussion of interpretational issues in quantum cosmology

Abstract

A simple quantum model describing the onset of time is presented. This is combined with a simple quantum model of the onset of space. A major purpose is to explore the interpretational issues which arise. The state vector is a superposition of states representing "instants." The sample space and probability measure are discussed. Critical to the dynamics is state vector collapse: it is argued that a tenable interpretation is not possible without it. Collapse provides a mechanism whereby the universe size, like a clock, is narrowly correlated with the quantized time eigenvalues.