Weekly Musing — Unraveling the Three-Body Problem of Consciousness: Exploring Identity, Truth, and Action
Someone on Twitter recently asked, “What work of fiction most impacted you as a person?”
The answers ran the usual gamut and were familiar to me, books or movies from the West. But one book mentioned several times was unfamiliar to me. “The Three-Body Problem” by Cixin Liu. Liu is the most prolific and popular science fiction writer in the People’s Republic of China. He is an eight-time winner of the Galaxy Award (the Chinese Hugo) and a winner of the Chinese Nebula Award. I had never heard of the book, so I ordered a copy. Read and thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it if you like hard science fiction, science fiction grounded in science. It was quite a treat.
But, I also recently completed six years working at the “Alliance for Decision Education” and am a teacher at heart. And so it got me thinking about how the ideas of the eponymous physics problem pertained to the topics of decision-making and education.
I began to muse, as I am inclined to do. Here are some thoughts. I’d be delighted for any reflections from readers, fellow teachers, or armchair philosophers.
For those unfamiliar, (remember that I was a Physics teacher at one point):
In physics, the three-body problem refers to the motion of three objects interacting through gravitational forces. It becomes more complex than the two-body problem because the presence of a third mass introduces additional gravitational interactions, making the behavior of the system difficult to predict.
When dealing with only two masses, like the Earth and the Moon, their motion is relatively straightforward to calculate. The gravitational force between them determines their orbits, and we can precisely predict their paths over time. However, when a third mass is introduced, such as the Sun, the interactions become significantly more intricate.
The gravitational forces among the three masses create a complex interplay. Each mass’s motion affects the others, pulling and tugging on them in different directions. As a result, the system’s behavior becomes chaotic and unpredictable. Small changes in initial conditions or the masses’ positions can lead to vastly different outcomes.
This unpredictability arises due to the nature of gravitational interactions. Each mass is influenced by the gravitational pull of the other two masses simultaneously. This intricate dance of gravitational forces leads to complex trajectories and ever-changing motions.
The three-body problem is a subject of ongoing scientific research, and scientists employ various techniques to approximate and analyze the system’s behavior. While exact solutions for arbitrary initial conditions are generally impossible to find, numerical simulations and mathematical approximations help us understand the general patterns and behaviors that can emerge.
The significance of the three-body problem extends beyond astrophysics. It serves as a metaphor for complex systems in various fields, illustrating how small changes or interactions between multiple elements can lead to highly unpredictable outcomes.
In summary, the three-body problem in physics explores the motion of three masses interacting through gravitational forces. Adding a third mass complicates the system, making its behavior difficult to predict due to the intricate gravitational interactions between the masses. This problem highlights the complexity and unpredictability that arise when multiple factors influence a system, resonating with a broader understanding of complexity and chaos in various disciplines.
Let’s take a break from hard science and consider Emma.
Example — Emma tries new cuisine
Imagine a young woman named Emma, who has always been hesitant to try Indian cuisine due to her preconceived notion that it is excessively spicy. She holds onto the belief that she wouldn’t enjoy it and feels a sense of resistance to exploring this aspect of culinary diversity. However, driven by a desire to challenge her preconceptions and expand her horizons, she decides to step out of her comfort zone and give Indian cuisine a chance.
Emma ventures into an authentic Indian restaurant, feeling a mix of curiosity and apprehension. As she peruses the menu, she notices a variety of dishes with unfamiliar names and ingredients. With a newfound sense of openness, she decides to try a mild curry dish, hoping to gradually ease herself into the flavors.
To her surprise, as she takes her first bite, Emma discovers that the dish is an explosion of delightful and complex flavors. The blend of aromatic spices, rich textures, and harmonious combinations leaves her palate craving more. She realizes that her preconceived notion of Indian cuisine being overwhelmingly spicy was far from accurate. This newfound truth challenges her preconceptions and opens her eyes to the diverse and nuanced world of Indian flavors.
This experience not only reshapes Emma’s understanding of what is true about Indian cuisine but also has a profound impact on her identity. She realizes that by embracing this new culinary adventure, she has tapped into her sense of curiosity, willingness to try new things, and openness to cultural experiences. Emma sees herself in a new light, not just as someone cautious and skeptical but as someone adventurous, open-minded, and willing to embrace the unknown.
With her perception shifted and her identity transformed, Emma’s journey into the world of Indian cuisine becomes a catalyst for further exploration. She becomes eager to try different regional dishes, experiment with diverse spices, and delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Indian culinary traditions. This newfound appreciation for Indian cuisine spills over into other aspects of her life as well, as Emma becomes more open to exploring other cultures, trying new activities, and embracing the unfamiliar.
Through her experience with Indian cuisine, Emma exemplifies the transformative power of challenging preconceptions and being open to new experiences. By venturing outside her comfort zone and embracing the unknown, she not only discovers a new truth about Indian cuisine but also discovers facets of her own identity that were waiting to be explored. This example highlights the interconnectedness of truth, identity, and action within the complex interplay of consciousness, illustrating how a simple choice can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.
The Three-body Problem as a metaphor for Identity and Values; Knowing; and Doing
Within the intricate tapestry of human consciousness, the interplay among three bodies of equal mass mirrors the enigmatic nature of the three-body problem in physics. In this metaphorical landscape, the questions of “Who am I?”, “What is true?”, and “What to do?” represent the gravitational forces that shape our conscious experience. By navigating the interplay among these fundamental inquiries, we can unravel the complexities, embrace transformation, and forge a path of self-discovery and personal growth.
The Unpredictability of Three Equal Bodies
The addition of three equal bodies within consciousness introduces complexity and unpredictability. Each question — “Who am I?”, “What is true?”, and “What to do?” — carries equal weight, exerting gravitational forces on one another. The intricate interactions among these inquiries give rise to non-linear and often unexpected outcomes, challenging our ability to predict precise trajectories.
Body 1 — Identity: Exploring the Question of “Who am I?”
The question “Who am I?” serves as a gravitational center within consciousness. It encompasses our sense of self, personal history, beliefs, and values. Our identity influences how we perceive the world, interact with others, and make decisions. It is through the exploration of this question that we shape our authentic selves and forge a path of self-discovery.
The interplay between the question of identity and the other two questions is crucial. Our understanding of “Who am I?” influences our pursuit of truth and guides our actions. Conversely, the pursuit of truth and our actions can also shape and redefine our sense of self. Striking a balance between these elements allows us to maintain authenticity and coherence in our conscious experience.
Body 2 — Truth: Unveiling the Question of “What is true?”
The question of “What is true?” represents another fundamental force within consciousness. It encompasses our pursuit of knowledge, understanding, and discernment of truth. With equal mass, this question interacts dynamically with the other components, informing our perspectives and shaping our intellectual landscape.
The interplay between the question of truth and the other two questions becomes an intricate dance of critical thinking and self-reflection. Our pursuit of truth influences our understanding of our own identity and informs the actions we take. Meanwhile, our identity and actions can influence our perception of truth, leading to a constant cycle of refinement and growth. Balancing these forces enables us to navigate the complexities of knowledge and embrace transformative insights.
Body 3 — Action: Embracing the Question of “What to do?”
The question “What to do?” represents the practical manifestation of consciousness. It governs our behaviors, choices, and actions in alignment with our identity and pursuit of truth. With equal mass, this question acts as a harmonizing force, ensuring that our actions resonate with our authentic selves and reflect our understanding of truth.
The interplay between the question of action and the other two questions is essential for intentional living. Our actions stem from our identity and values, guided by our pursuit of truth. Similarly, our actions can inform and shape our sense of self and influence our understanding of truth. Striking a balance allows us to act in alignment with our values, grow through intentional choices, and contribute meaningfully to our own lives and the world around us.
Embracing Complexity and Transformation
While the interplay among the three questions within consciousness may seem complex and unpredictable, it also presents opportunities for personal growth and transformation. Embracing the complexity of “Who am I?”, “What is true?”, and “What to do?” invites us to navigate uncertainty, engage in self-reflection, and embrace transformative possibilities.
Acknowledging the intricate gravitational forces at play within our conscious experience empowers us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. By exploring the questions of identity, truth, and action, we gain deeper insights into ourselves and the world. Through introspection, critical thinking, and intentional action, we shape our identities, refine our understanding of truth, and cultivate self-regulation. Embracing complexity becomes a catalyst for transformation within consciousness.
The metaphorical three-body problem of consciousness, represented by the questions of “Who am I?”, “What is true?”, and “What to do?”, illustrates the intricate dynamics that shape our conscious experience. By navigating the interplay among these questions, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and interconnectedness. Within the complexities lie transformative possibilities, allowing us to shape our identities, seek truth, and engage in intentional actions that align with our values. As we unravel the mysteries of consciousness, we unlock the potential for personal evolution and meaningful contributions to ourselves and the world.
Example: Adam — Becoming a Father
Imagine a man named Adam, who has always been uncertain about becoming a father and harbors doubts about his ability to love and connect with a newborn child. He is apprehensive about the responsibilities and lifestyle changes that accompany parenthood, fearing that he may not experience the overwhelming love and attachment often associated with being a parent.
When Adam’s partner gives birth to their first child, he finds himself in a whirlwind of emotions. Holding his newborn baby in his arms, he gazes into those innocent eyes and feels a mixture of awe, joy, and trepidation. While he knows that he has a responsibility to care for this tiny life, he wonders if he will truly be capable of the deep, unconditional love that others seem to effortlessly express.
As the days pass and Adam spends more time with his child, he begins to witness the incredible journey of growth and development unfolding before his eyes. He finds himself marveling at the child’s curiosity, innocence, and vulnerability. Adam realizes that the love he feels for his child is not a sudden, overwhelming force, but rather a gradual and profound connection that grows with each passing moment.
Through sleepless nights, diaper changes, and tender moments of bonding, Adam discovers the depth of his love and the transformation it brings to his identity. He witnesses his child’s first smile, hears the first giggles, and feels an indescribable warmth in his heart. He realizes that the love he experiences is a unique blend of tenderness, protection, and an unyielding desire to nurture and support his child.
Adam’s journey into fatherhood not only challenges his preconceived notions but also transforms his identity. He evolves from a man uncertain about his capacity for love into a devoted father who finds joy and purpose in the profound connection with his child. He discovers qualities within himself that he never knew existed — patience, selflessness, and a newfound sense of responsibility.
As Adam navigates the intricacies of fatherhood, he becomes an active participant in his child’s life, embracing the joys and challenges that come with it. He learns to trust his instincts, seek guidance when needed, and adapt to the ever-evolving nature of parenthood. Through his love for his child, Adam becomes a source of comfort, support, and unwavering devotion.
This transformative experience not only reshapes Adam’s understanding of what it means to be a father but also redefines his own identity. He recognizes himself as someone capable of unconditional love, sacrifice, and the ability to nurture and guide another human being. Adam’s journey into fatherhood illustrates the profound impact that love and connection can have on shaping our identities and expanding our capacity for compassion and selflessness.
In the end, Adam’s uncertainty and doubts about fatherhood are replaced with a deep and abiding love for his child. This example highlights the transformative power of embracing the unknown, challenging preconceived notions, and opening oneself to the profound journey of parenthood. It illustrates how the interplay between truth, identity, and action can lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and a love that transcends expectations.
Example: John — Losing a job
Imagine a middle-aged adult named John, who recently experienced the devastating loss of his long-held job. The abrupt termination leaves him feeling disoriented, overwhelmed, and questioning his self-worth. As he grapples with the negative impacts of losing his job, including financial strain and a blow to his sense of status and identity, he decides to embark on a journey of reinvention by returning to school to pursue a new profession.
Initially, John faces a myriad of challenges stemming from the loss of his job. Financially, he struggles to make ends meet as he navigates unemployment and the uncertainty of his future. Emotionally, he experiences a sense of shame and a loss of identity tied to the status and stability that his previous job provided. The fear of starting over and the uncertainty of whether he will be successful in a new field weigh heavily on his mind.
However, as John begins his educational journey, he discovers unexpected sources of hope and fellowship. In the classroom, he meets fellow students who are also seeking new paths in their lives. They share similar stories of career transitions, losses, and aspirations. The camaraderie and support they offer one another become a source of encouragement and a reminder that he is not alone in his journey.
As John delves into learning his new profession, he finds a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. The process of acquiring new knowledge and skills ignites his curiosity and passion for his chosen field. He discovers hidden talents, explores untapped potential, and begins to envision a future filled with possibilities.
The educational environment becomes a nurturing space for growth and self-discovery. John finds mentors and professors who inspire and guide him, providing valuable insights and support. Through their expertise and encouragement, he gains confidence in his ability to succeed in his new profession.
As John progresses through his educational program, he not only gains knowledge and expertise but also experiences personal transformation. He learns to embrace change, adapt to new challenges, and develop resilience. The process of acquiring new skills and redefining his professional identity allows him to shed the limitations imposed by his previous job loss and embrace a future filled with hope and possibilities.
Moreover, John discovers a newfound sense of purpose as he realizes that his journey can inspire and support others facing similar challenges. He becomes involved in peer mentoring programs and engages in networking opportunities within his chosen field. Through these interactions, he finds fulfillment in helping others navigate their career transitions and finding their paths to success.
Ultimately, John’s decision to return to school after the loss of his job becomes a transformative experience. It empowers him to overcome the negative impacts of unemployment, reclaim his sense of self-worth, and discover a newfound passion for a new profession. The journey not only offers him hope and fellowship but also allows him to contribute to the lives of others and find fulfillment in his own growth and personal development.
John’s story exemplifies the resilience and transformative power that can emerge from adversity. Through the pursuit of education, he finds hope, fellowship, and the opportunity to rebuild his professional identity. It serves as a testament to the potential for personal growth, self-discovery, and a brighter future, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
Reflecting on the Metaphor
Reflecting on the concepts explored in the interplay of consciousness, exemplified through the three questions of “Who am I?”, “What is true?”, and “What to do?”, we uncover valuable lessons about our lives and personal growth.
- Identity and Values:
Our identities are not fixed but continually shaped by our experiences, choices, and the narratives we construct. Embracing complexity allows us to explore new facets of ourselves, challenge preconceived notions, and evolve into the individuals we aspire to be. The examples of Emma embracing Indian cuisine and Adam discovering his capacity for love as a father illustrate the transformative power of embracing new experiences, questioning our assumptions, and cultivating open-mindedness.
- Knowing — Epistemic Rationality and Critical Thinking:
Seeking truth requires a commitment to critical thinking, intellectual honesty, and open-minded pursuit of knowledge. It involves questioning our beliefs, examining evidence, and being willing to revise our understanding when confronted with new information. The journey of John returning to school after job loss highlights the importance of embracing change, acquiring new knowledge, and adapting to new circumstances as pathways to personal growth and professional reinvention.
3. Action — Self-Regulation and Behaving Consistent with Goals:
Our actions play a vital role in shaping our lives. Self-regulation involves aligning our behavior with our values, setting meaningful goals, and cultivating the discipline to pursue them. The examples of Emma embracing new cultural experiences and Adam embracing the responsibilities of fatherhood demonstrate the transformative impact of intentional actions that lead to self-discovery, personal growth, and the realization of our true potential.
By considering our lives through the lens of the three questions, we gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between identity, truth-seeking, and action. We recognize that our identities are not static but fluid, and we have the power to shape them by embracing complexity and being open to new experiences. We understand that seeking truth requires critical thinking, intellectual humility, and a willingness to revise our beliefs. And we realize that our actions have the power to transform our lives, allowing us to align our behavior with our values and cultivate personal growth and fulfillment.
Ultimately, the lessons derived from contemplating our lives through these concepts empower us to embrace change, challenge our assumptions, and take intentional actions that lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and a more meaningful existence. They invite us to embark on a journey of exploration and transformation within the complex realm of consciousness, unlocking the potential for a life lived authentically, passionately, and with a deep sense of purpose.
Special thanks to Keith Stanovich, “The Robot’s Rebellion: Finding Meaning in the Age of Darwin”