In keeping with the 2nd law of thermodynamics, the universe at 10 to the negative 43 seconds after the big bang would have been at its lowest entropy. I would be interested in hearing othersβ thoughts on the implications of this relative to consciousness. Specifically consciousness as inherent to the faculties of thought, comprehension, imagination, and memory.
Two implications. First, that our mere existence is due to the sheer randomness of bounded chaos. Second, that our consciousness is the accidental result of that vast scale chaotic dynamic. Third, that random chaos will eventually consume our planet and us, and there will eventually be no trace that human consciousness every existed.
I'm glad I've had a couple of glasses of wine and studied thermodynamics as part of my degree! Yes, the universe has become more chaotic with the passage of time, but I also believe that evolution has kept life in lock-step else we and other living creatures would not exist. Although, of course, the level of consciousness and associated faculties varies with the given species.
I would love to discuss this over a beer or three But I believe that "evolution" and associated attributes (including consciousness) would have to be my answer on this.
I think so, but we'd need to agree on the meaning of "consciousness" first
My meaning is sentience in general, but more specifically, the ability to create works of art, music, poetry, the ability to develop mathematics and language, to think in the abstract, to comprehend the realities of things, to imagine and invent, and to remember.
Do you think these abilities emerge as the result of evolution? Or do they exist in potential but require evolution to occur in order for them to manifest?