Stranger Things: Are there Parallel Universes?

The Netflix Original, "Stranger Things," explores the idea that there are parallel or multi universes. Could these universes actually exist? We're going to explore this question, but keep in mind, these are just theories.

Parallel universes are essentially universes that are similar to ours, but with other realities and outcomes. There are many complex aspects that have led us to believe (or not believe) that parallel universes exist. We are only going to be covering the basics without diving into the complex nature of parallel universes.

Studying parallel universes involves quantum physics. According to Clark (n.d.), physicist Niels Bohr suggested that quantum particles exist in all states at once, and when we observe its behavior, we change its behavior. Hugh Everett, who established the Many Worlds Theory, expanded on Bohr's work. However, instead of insisting that observing quantum behavior changed its state, it splits into a universe for various possible outcomes (Clark, n.d.). This means that if in this universe, if you get into an accident, there is another similar universe where you do not get into an accident. String Theory is another theory that leads to the idea that there may be parallel universes. According to Clark (n.d.), String Theory suggests that the essential building blocks of the universe exist at a subquantum level. This means that our universe exists in a "bubble" next to other parallel universes, and they can come into contact with each other.

According to Howell (2018), parallel universes may exist because space-time could be flat. It could go on infinitely, which means that universes could start repeating themselves.

There are many other theories that suggest that parallel universes could exist. However, there are also arguments against parallel universes. Howell (2018) states that some arguments against parallel universes are that the universe's age is not infinite,  and there would be different rates of inflation in other universes. What do you think? Do parallel universes exist, such as in "Stranger Things?"



References

Clark, J. (n.d.) Do parallel universes really exist? How Stuff Works. Retrieved      from https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/parallel-universe3.htm

Howell, E. (2018). Parallel universes: Theory and evidence. Space.com. Retrieved from https://www.space.com/32728-parallel-universes.html