Real Space and Observed Space: An Energy-Efficiency Account of Measurement, Causality, and Cognition

This paper distinguishes between real space—the ontological unfolding of energy distribution and constraints—and observed space—the space presented through information propagation and measurement. Within Energy-Efficiency Theory, real space is the primary ontology, but all human access to it is mediated by energy exchange, which inevitably introduces dissipation, noise, and uncertainty. Observed space is thus a projection of real space under the constraints of finite signal speed (c), minimum measurement time (Δt_min = d_min / v_max), and energetic costs. This distinction provides a unified explanation for: (1) the probabilistic nature of natural causality, (2) the measurement limits in quantum and classical systems, (3) the constructive nature of perception, and (4) the asymptotic approach to truth through scientific inquiry. The framework bridges physics, epistemology, and cognitive science, offering a coherent answer to the question: why can we never know the world as it is, yet can systematically approach it?