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The Great Loop: From Conformal Cyclic Cosmology to Aeon Monism
1Philosophy Department, University of Geneva, 2 Rue de Candolle, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
Journal for General Philosophy of Science = Zeitschrift Fur Allgemeine Wissenschaftstheorie
|June 17, 2026
Summary
Conformal cyclic cosmology suggests universes are linked. This paper argues a single universe can loop back on itself, exploring implications for eternal return theories.
Area of Science:
- Cosmology
- Theoretical Physics
Background:
- Penrose's conformal cyclic cosmology (CCC) proposes a sequence of universes (aeons).
- In CCC, the end of one aeon connects to the beginning of the next.
- An alternative interpretation, aeon monism, suggests a single universe's end connects to its own beginning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate aeon monism as a natural interpretation of CCC.
- To explore the implications of aeon monism for the concept of eternal return.
- To analyze these ideas within contemporary metaphysics of time.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of Penrose's conformal cyclic cosmology.
- Philosophical examination of cosmological models.
- Discussion of eternal return and time metaphysics.
Main Results:
- Aeon monism presents a viable, natural interpretation of CCC.
- This interpretation offers new perspectives on the cyclical nature of existence.
- The study connects CCC with philosophical concepts of recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Aeon monism should be considered a valid interpretation of conformal cyclic cosmology.
- The model has significant implications for understanding eternal return.
- Further investigation into CCC and time metaphysics is warranted.
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