Universal Phase-Crystallization Theory (UPCT) I: Generative Time and Relational Space

This work introduces Universal Phase-Crystallization Theory (UPCT), a generative structural framework proposing that time, space, and stability emerge from the interaction between generative processes (Φ), relational mediation (G), and structural stabilization (S). The theory provides a unified interpretation of irreversibility, symmetry breaking, and structural collapse across physics and complex systems. UPCT proposes that time arises from generative asymmetry rather than entropy alone, while space emerges from relational structure rather than static geometry. The work establishes a conceptual foundation for a generative physics connecting quantum theory, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, and complex network science. This study represents a theoretical foundation; quantitative simulations are presented separately as part of the UPCT research program. Highlights 1 — A generative reinterpretation of time Time is proposed to emerge from generative irreversibility (Φ → G → S) rather than from entropy alone. 2 — A relational definition of space Space is reinterpreted as the structural geometry produced by relational mediation rather than a pre-existing container. 3 — A structural explanation of irreversibility Irreversibility is framed as generative asymmetry instead of purely statistical entropy increase. 4 — A unifying structural framework UPCT connects quantum measurement, non-equilibrium physics, network stability, and complex system collapse through one structural principle. 5 — Toward a generative physics The theory outlines a transition from state-based physics to process-based generative physics. Abstract Modern physics successfully describes states and symmetries but continues to struggle with the origin of irreversibility, the arrow of time, and the emergence of structure. Universal Phase-Crystallization Theory (UPCT) proposes that these problems arise from describing generative processes using state-based formalisms. UPCT instead introduces a generative structural framework in which reality evolves through the interaction of generative potential (Φ), relational mediation (G), and structural stabilization (S). Within this framework, time is reinterpreted as the directional consequence of generative asymmetry rather than purely a thermodynamic phenomenon. The apparent time symmetry of fundamental equations is understood as a property of structural descriptions (S), while irreversibility emerges from the generative transition from possibility to structure. This perspective provides a structural explanation of the long-standing tension between time-symmetric laws and irreversible phenomena. UPCT further proposes a relational definition of space. Instead of treating space as a static geometric background, the theory interprets spatial structure as emerging from relational mediation processes. This aligns with relational interpretations of quantum theory and network-based approaches to complex systems, while extending them into a unified generative ontology. The theory also introduces structural principles including generative incompleteness, generative uncertainty, criticality, phase transition behavior, and generative renormalization. Together these principles define a research program aimed at developing a generative physics capable of integrating quantum theory, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, and complex system stability within a single structural framework. This work presents the conceptual and theoretical foundation of UPCT. Quantitative modeling and simulation results are presented separately as part of the broader UPCT research program. The present study should therefore be understood as establishing the structural and philosophical basis of a generative interpretation of physical reality. Author’s Related Works Ohumi, K. (2025). Manifesto of the Life OS: The "It from Wave" Philosophy. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18106437 Ohumi, K. (2025). A Sampling-Theoretic Reinterpretation of Quantum Uncertainty and Wave Function Collapse. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18004579 Ohumi, K. (2025). Observation as Operational Crystallization: Resolving Quantum Paradoxes. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18220191 Ohumi, K. (2025). It from Wave: Phase Propagation as Physical Basis of Information. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18256968 Ohumi, K. (2025). Ontological Reconstruction of Quasi-Particles. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18140041 Ohumi, K. (2025). Envelopment over Unification: Recovering Einstein’s Dream. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18244683 Ohumi, K. (2025). 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