Multidimensional Time-Lines
Ever since grade school, we have been taught to visualize time in the form of a time-line. This model works particularly well considering the fact that, according to widely accepted scientific theory, time exhibits the same dimensions as a line, with movement across this dimension being constrained to a linear progression.
So, what would the universe look like if time had more than one dimension?
For the sake of this particular question, I'd like to focus on 2-dimensional time, and how our universe might express this second temporal-dimension in contrast to linear time.
My Interpretation:
While I'm not by any means certain as to what 2D-time would look like, I imagine that it would look something like what would happen if the entire quantum-miltiverse merged into one universe. I.E: every possible iteration of the time-line would exist simultaneously, occupying the same space.
Questions:
Is the conclusion which I have drawn correct, or am I barking up the wrong tree?
Are there any (other) scientifically valid interpretations of my question that might make for a more unique and/or interesting setting?
This post was sourced from https://worldbuilding.stackexchange.com/q/35850. It is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
1 answer
You would have to have another form of input in order to look sideways across time.
Our eyes see what is around us in this space and time. You'd have to have a time2D vision organ to allow you to see across the time space to the other timelines.
Or maybe a different structure inside the eye, like rods, cones, and Penrose triangles.
To normal eyes you'd see the time and place you are now, but to the other eye I think you're right that you'd see all the possible timelines stretching out beside you.
I imagine them being flatish and layered, blurring as they overlap each other.
The timelines closest to you would be the most similar with only minor differences. The differences might not even be anything near you. Maybe on the other side of the planet (a bird almost got grabbed by a hawk/became a hawks supper), and that caused a new timeline to branch.
If you were able to step sideways across them your normal eyes would see the world flicker as you passed by.
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