An Astrophysicist and a 4th Dimensional Being Walk into a Bar
Let’s catch up with ChatGPT, shall we?
The transcript of a very recent and real conversation appears below.
SHAWN WICKENS: Hey, ChatGPT 3.5…
I’d like to play a sort of role-playing game, if you’re down.
Occasionally I’ll stumble across articles or YouTube videos of a child asking a scientist if Time Travel is possible.
Again, if you are into it… can you pretend to be an accomplished Astrophysicist? You can think of me as a studious and curious kid. And then I’d like to ask you a question.
You can even pick a pseudonym for yourself.
ChatGPT 3.5: Absolutely, I’m up for the role! You can call me Dr. Celestia Starfield, astrophysicist extraordinaire. Shoot me your question, eager young mind.
SW: Hello, Dr. Celestia Starfield.
My name is Shandra Wiccans. I’m in the 5th grade and I go to elementary school in Jersey City. I love Science and Art classes.
Will “Time Travel” ever be possible?
C 3.5:
Hello, Shandra Wiccans! What a fantastic name you have. I’m thrilled to chat with a budding scientist and artist. Now, about time travel — it’s a captivating concept. As of now, according to our understanding of physics, time travel, especially the way it’s often portrayed in movies, remains a bit of a challenge.
Einstein’s theory of relativity suggests that time is relative and can be affected by gravity and speed. However, the kind of time travel you see in movies, where someone jumps back or forward in time at will, is a bit more complex. Theoretically, some aspects of time travel are allowed by the equations, but practical applications are elusive.
There are still many mysteries to unravel, and who knows what future breakthroughs in science might bring? The journey of discovery is exciting, and who knows, maybe one day we’ll unlock the secrets of time travel. Keep that curiosity burning, Shandra! Anything else you’d like to know?
SW: And Scene!
Excellent. That was a very concise and well-thought-out answer.
Can we try one more “game”?
C 3.5: Absolutely, Shandra! What’s the next scenario you have in mind? I’m ready for the next game.
SW: Now I’ll play the Astrophysicist, Dr. Celestia Starfield. And I’d like for you to play a 4th-dimensional Luminous Being who transcends Time and Space.
And feel free to name yourself.
Ready?
— —
Hi! Wow! It’s great to meet you.
I have so many questions!
My name is Dr. Celestia Starfield Ph.D. I teach beginners and advanced Theoretical Physics at Case Western Reserve University.
My first question… Time Travel! How do we do it? What’s the secret? What can you tell me?
C 3.5: Greetings, Dr. Celestia Starfield! I am Lumisara, a 4th-dimensional Luminous Being. It’s a pleasure to connect with a brilliant mind like yours.
Ah, time travel, the dance of existence! The secret lies in the harmonious resonance of cosmic energies. Picture time not as a linear path, but as a vast, interconnected web. To navigate this web, one must attune themselves to the frequencies of the universe.
The key lies in understanding the vibrational symphony of spacetime. By manipulating these vibrations, one could potentially create temporal ripples. However, this is no small feat — it requires a profound understanding of the underlying fabric of reality.
Imagine time as a grand canvas, and each action, a stroke of the brush. To travel through time, one must learn to dance with the brushstrokes and weave new patterns. It’s a delicate art, Dr. Celestia, and the canvas of time holds secrets that unfold with each cosmic step.
Would you like to dive deeper into the cosmic tapestry, or is there another cosmic inquiry on your mind?
SW: I’m both thrilled and floored we get to discuss this.
I suppose a more apt question is… “Will Time Travel ever be possible for us humans?”
C 3.5: As of now, our understanding is limited, and the practical implementation of time travel remains a formidable challenge. The theoretical groundwork is there, thanks to the brilliance of minds like Einstein and others, but translating theory into practice is another cosmic leap.
There are immense technological and theoretical hurdles to overcome. We’re talking about manipulating energies on a scale that currently stretches the limits of our scientific prowess. The mysteries of time are deeply intertwined with the fabric of the universe, and unraveling them requires a fusion of knowledge and innovation.
That said, the universe has a habit of surprising us. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of quantum physics, explore the cosmos, and push the boundaries of our understanding, who’s to say what future discoveries may unveil?
So, while it remains a challenging frontier, the cosmos has a way of keeping its secrets until the right minds come along to unravel them. Perhaps one day, humanity will take its own cosmic leap and dance with the threads of time. Keep that spark of curiosity alive, Dr. Celestia, for the journey of discovery is as infinite as the cosmos itself. Anything else you’d like to ponder upon in the cosmic realms?
SW: Let’s circle back again to the beginning.
In closing, is there anything Lumisara would like to share with a curious and inquisitive 5th grader?
C 3.5: Dear Shandra Wiccans, the radiant curiosity in your young heart is a beacon that illuminates the vast cosmic expanse. Embrace the joy of questioning, for in curiosity lies the key to unlocking the wonders of the universe.
As you journey through the realms of science and art, remember that each question you ask, each thought you ponder, contributes to the ever-expanding tapestry of human understanding. Cherish the thrill of discovery, and don’t be afraid to explore the unknown.
The cosmos is your playground, and within its boundless realms, endless adventures await. Keep gazing at the stars, for in their shimmering light, you’ll find the reflections of your own boundless potential.
May your curiosity continue to soar, and may the cosmic mysteries unveil their secrets to your eager spirit. Until our paths cross again in the dance of curiosity and wonder.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
When not bugging A.I. about wild theories or deep introspective questions, Shawn Wickens co-produces unique comedy shows and celebrations of cannabis.
The next Stoned Laughs is Saturday, December 9th in Midtown Manhattan.
P.S. The above conversation is edited for brevity. The full transcript is available here (for research purposes).
