If you’re here, you probably watched the Joe Rogan Experience podcast episode featuring Terrence Howard. It was, at times, hard to follow and, for the less mathematically inclined, perhaps even bamboozling. But it certainly was interesting. I thought it would be worth researching some of the ideas and simplifying them below. I’ve also included some of Terrence Howard’s background and influences.
Terrence Howard, an Oscar-nominated actor, is also known for his intriguing and complex theories about reality. His ideas challenge conventional scientific thought, exploring the nature of the universe, matter, and energy.
Key Concepts
Memories from the Womb
Howard started his interview by claiming he remembers everything from the time he was in his mother’s womb. For many of us, this signals the best kind of JRE episode. Howard described detailed memories, such as seeing his hand in utero and being circumcised, suggesting an extraordinarily early level of consciousness. This claim challenges conventional understanding of memory formation, which typically develops post-birth.
Background: While the scientific community largely agrees that memories cannot form until after birth due to the development of the brain’s hippocampus, there are anecdotal accounts and studies on prenatal learning that suggest some level of sensory memory might be possible. Howard’s claim, though extraordinary, encourages a deeper look into the mysteries of human consciousness and memory formation.
The Universal Wave Function
One of Howard’s core beliefs revolves around the idea that everything in the universe can be explained through waves. Imagine dropping a pebble into a pond and watching the ripples spread out. Howard proposes that the fundamental building blocks of reality are not particles (like the pebble), but waves (like the ripples). These waves interact in complex ways when they collide — think froth or air bubbles — to form the universe.
Background: This perspective aligns with some interpretations of quantum physics, which suggest that particles can also behave like waves. The wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics reveals that particles such as electrons and photons can behave both as particles and waves. Howard’s fascination with this concept likely stems from the work of physicists like Niels Bohr and Erwin Schrödinger, who were pioneers in quantum theory.
Gravity is Fake
Howard made the bold claim that gravity is fake, suggesting an alternative force at play. He believes that he could “rebuild Saturn without gravity,” describing an inward-outward force that shapes planets without relying on gravity, dark matter, or dark energy. He showed how this works using an on-screen simulation.
Background: This idea challenges Newtonian physics and Einstein’s general relativity, which have long described gravity as a fundamental force. Howard’s view seeks to rethink how we understand planetary formation and the forces that govern celestial bodies. While mainstream science does not support this view, exploring such unconventional ideas can inspire new ways of thinking about the universe.
Straight Lines are an Illusion
Howard claims that straight lines are an illusion and that, when viewed from the correct perspective, they are not straight. This idea suggests that our perception of geometry is limited and that true forms differ from what we observe.
Background: This concept might be inspired by non-Euclidean geometry, which explores curved spaces and shapes that defy traditional straight-line definitions. Additionally, at the quantum level, particles exhibit wave-like behavior, suggesting that straight lines might be an illusion when you zoom in far enough. Howard’s assertion encourages rethinking basic geometric principles. For instance, in the theory of general relativity, the presence of mass can curve spacetime, making straight lines appear curved when viewed in the context of the universe.
The “Flower of Life” and Math
Howard has expressed a deep fascination with a geometric figure known as the “Flower of Life.” This symbol, which dates back to ancient civilizations, is believed to represent the fundamental patterns of the universe. Think of it as a beautiful, intricate snowflake-like pattern that repeats itself. Howard suggests that traditional mathematics, particularly the value of one, is flawed. Instead, he believes that understanding the universe requires a new mathematical framework based on this sacred geometry.
Background: The Flower of Life has roots in sacred geometry, which has been studied by various ancient cultures, including the Egyptians and Greeks. This symbol is often linked to the fundamental shapes and patterns found in nature. Howard’s ideas are influenced by the belief that these geometric patterns can reveal deeper truths about the universe. Sacred geometry involves the study of shapes and symbols that have been used in art, architecture, and nature throughout history.
Multidimensional Model of the Flower of Life
Howard takes the Flower of Life concept further by creating a multidimensional model. Imagine taking a flat, intricate pattern and folding it into a complex, three-dimensional structure, like origami. This model illustrates the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. According to Howard, this multidimensional Flower of Life is key to understanding the fabric of reality and the true nature of existence.
Background: Howard’s expansion of the Flower of Life into a three-dimensional model suggests a deeper level of complexity and interconnectedness. This idea may be inspired by modern physics’ exploration of higher dimensions, as proposed in string theory and M-theory, where the universe is seen as having multiple dimensions beyond the three we experience.
The Lynchpin Concept
Howard’s Lynchpin concept explores the fundamental role of the square root of two in understanding the universe’s geometry. Imagine a key that unlocks a complex puzzle. The Lynchpin, as Howard describes it, is this key. It’s crucial to his theories about the interconnectedness and fundamental nature of the universe. He believes that by examining this constant, we can uncover deeper truths about reality.
Background: The square root of two is a well-known mathematical constant with a rich history in geometry and number theory. Howard’s interpretation suggests that this constant holds a pivotal role in the structure of the universe, which may be inspired by its use in ancient architectural and geometric designs.
Challenging Multiplication: Howard’s Hypothesis
Both on the JRE and in his Oxford Union address, Howard challenges a fundamental principle of mathematics: multiplication. Specifically, he questions the accepted result of 1 x 1 = 1. Howard argues that this equation is incorrect, suggesting instead that the product of one times one should be two. Think of it as combining two unique ingredients to create something new, rather than just one thing. Howard’s hypothesis encourages rethinking basic arithmetic principles and their implications on understanding reality.
Background: Howard’s challenge to multiplication is rooted in his exploration of geometric and wave patterns. This idea reflects his broader quest to rethink and redefine basic mathematical principles to better align with his views on the interconnectedness of reality.
