A Quantum Informational Approach to the Problem of Time

Several novel approaches have been proposed to resolve the problem of time by relating it to change. We argue using quantum information theory that the Hamiltonian constraint in quantum gravity cannot probe change, so it cannot be used to obtain a meaningful notion of time. This is due to the absence of quantum Fisher information with respect to the quantum Hamiltonian of a time-reparametization invariant system. We also observe that the inability of this Hamiltonian to probe change can be related to its inability to discriminate between states of such a system. However, if the time-reparametization symmetry is spontaneously broken due to the formation of quantum cosmological time crystals, these problems can be resolved, and it is possible for time to emerge in quantum gravity.

Automated summary

This study proposes that the Hamiltonian constraint in quantum gravity cannot probe change and therefore cannot provide a meaningful notion of time. It suggests that if the time-reparametrization symmetry is spontaneously broken, time can emerge in quantum gravity.