Title:
Is spacetime contingent?
Abstract:
Many approaches to quantum gravity suggest that spacetime emerges from a more fundamental, non-spatiotemporal structure. What then is the modal status of the emerging spacetime: is it necessary or contingent? Using loop quantum gravity as a case study, I will argue that spacetime should be considered physically contingent, at least on a naturalist conception of modality. I will then discuss metaphysical implications of this tentative result, particularly concerning the debate between substantivalism and relationalism, and the nature of laws.