alainprice: Since when does BB theory require that the origin be a singularity? Same goes with inflation.

dcl: Strictly speaking, it doesn't. But denying a singularity raises problems with causality. 10 exp -43 second ends the Planck era. It doesn't allow time for a synchronizing signal to propagate between separated points, so cosmologists do not try to say that space comes into existence throughoutl a finite volume.

alainprice: Let us remember that empty space is not energy = 0 . It is the ground state, and this can very well have energy associated with it.

dcl: I agree that space isn't energy = 0, but at time = 10 exp -43 seconds, there wasn't yet any space. Not even quantum mechanics was applicable yet because configuration space wasn't yet definable.

korjik: Generally, divine intervention. Physics does not explain anything before 10^-43 s

dcl: We're trying to discuss physics, not theology. I can't discuss divine intervention. I agree that physics doesn't explain anything before 10 exp -43 seconds, nor does it try to.