The Invisible Worlds of Modern Physics: a Theological Analysis
Modern physics contains a number of speculative hypotheses based on the recognition of the existence of worlds “invisible” for physical research, which can be conditionally divided into four main groups: those associated with the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics; anti-worlds built from baryonic anti-substance; multiverse universes; worlds associated with extra dimensions in string theory. Theological analysis of these concepts can be carried out on the basis of the principle of the uniqueness of the human spirit, which has free will. The idea of introducing endless copies of each human “I”, whether it be splitting at a quantum fork of alternative actions or splitting into non-communicating Universes, cannot be acceptable to the Christian consciousness. The introduction of such theories into scientific circulation is aimed at avoiding at least a slight hint of a theistic worldview, which in this case is the only reasonable alternative. The idea of an anti- world with a reverse flow of time does not look absolutely unacceptable, but it also lacks semantic appeal. The presence of hidden dimensions in string theory is theologically acceptable, since it does not introduce an infinite number of worlds with infinite copies of the same spiritual being. Moreover, the “materiality” of hidden dimensions, unattainable for study using the methods of physics, is consistent with the patristic teaching about the “subtle corporeality” of spirits. As in the framework of traditional theology, the spiritual world remains separated from the physical and can be explored only by the inner life of the soul of a person who belongs to two worlds at the same time.