Defining the Universe: Can a Universe Be Greater Than a Multiverse?
Understanding the Concepts of Universe and Multiverse
When delving into the expansive field of cosmology, the definitions and contexts of what constitute a universe and a multiverse often become quite nebulous. Traditional understanding often spins around superficial definitions, leading to debates that may seem meaningless or void of substance.
The key to unraveling these concepts lies in the varying interpretations and scopes found in different cosmological theories and fictional universes. A universe of 250 trillion light years can indeed be larger than a multiverse composed of 100 smaller universes, each measuring 10 billion light years. However, the validity of such comparisons often hinges on the definitions employed, rather than on the actual physical properties of these cosmic entities.
Interpreting Entities through Cosmological Lens
The interpretation of entities such as the Dragon Ball Z multiverse and J.R.R. Tolkien's E? (the Universe) highlights the vast differences in how these concepts can be understood. The Dragon Ball Z multiverse, which consists of 12 distinct universes, is a limited and measureable construct with specific spatial dimensions. In contrast, E? in Tolkien is an immensely vast and complex universe, transcending the finite and measurable.
Similar to the Dragon Ball Z multiverse, Tolkien's E? has divisions into regions, which, while vast, are finite and countable. On the other hand, Varda (a goddess in Tolkien's mythology) and Zeno's (a hypothetical entity from Dragon Ball Z) scale and complexity greatly surpass any finite measurement. Varda, as a universal entity, operates on a scale that is ineffably larger and more intricate, highlighting the absurdity of comparing cosmic entities through finite measures.
The Nonsense of Scaling
When attempting to scale and compare the extent of universes, the arguments often collapse into a chaotic debate. The definitions used for terms like 'finite,' 'infinite,' and 'immeasurable' can vary widely, leading to endless speculation without practical application or meaning. The vastness of a universe cannot be accurately measured or compared without a clear and universal definition, making such comparisons often meaningless.
Beyond Finite Comparisons
The true depth of a universe, whether in the confines of a fictional multiverse like Dragon Ball Z or the vast expanse of a universe like Tolkien's E?, lies in its transcendence over finite measures. In Tolkien's universe, the regions and dimensions are beyond human comprehension, transcending the limitations of time and space as we understand them.
Similarly, Varda's operations extend beyond even the concepts of the infinite, into a realm of immeasurable vastness. The measurelessness of the regions in Tolkien's universe and the transcendent nature of Varda's operations underscore the futility of finite comparisons in understanding the true nature of the universe and the multiverse.
Ultimately, the definitions and scales of universes and multiverses are fluid and context-dependent. What may be considered a universe in one context might be seen as a mere fragment in another. The true measure of these cosmic entities lies in their implications and impact, rather than in any finite or superficial comparison.