Possible Implications of the Quantum Theory of Gravity

TL;DR

This paper explores the philosophical implications of certain plausible assumptions about quantum gravity, suggesting wide-ranging consequences that challenge existing views, despite being nontechnical and building on recent work.

Contribution

It introduces new philosophical implications of quantum gravity assumptions, contrasting with prior unpublished work and highlighting broad conceptual impacts.

Findings

Wide philosophical implications of quantum gravity assumptions

Contradicts recent unpublished work of Lee Smolin

Highlights importance of simple assumptions in quantum gravity theories

Abstract

We consider the implications of some simple assumptions about the nature of the quantum theory of gravity which are plausible for a class of possible theories I have been attempting to construct. The simple assumptions turn out to have surprizingly wide implications of a type one might call philosophical. The paper is short and nontechnical. ( This builds on recent unpublished work of Lee Smolin, but comes to opposite conclusions).