Models of Time and Space from Astrophysics and World Cultures

The Roots of Astrophysical Reality explores how our conceptions of time, space, and the physical universe have evolved across cultures and throughout the centuries. Developed in discussion with leading astrophysicists, neuroscientists, life scientists, and scholars from a range of spiritual traditions, this rich read describes the incredible insights and frustrating limits inherent in our study of the universe, and how ideas old and new are helping to reshape our understanding of reality. The chapters herein will teach you about dark matter and dark energy, gravitational waves and other complex and unseen parts of the cosmos. Along the way, you will learn a thing or two about quantum mechanics, parallel worlds, and the boundaries of the observable universe. The second half of the book explores a variety of cultural belief systems, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and several Native American and Aboriginal spiritual perspectives, to show how our modern conceptions of space and time are in many ways compatible with ancient world traditions. Written in a nontechnical and accessible style for lay readers and students, this book serves as a both a digestible foray into modern astrophysics and a diverse look at the intersection between subjective experience and objective reality.