  We propose a model for the universe based on Jordan algebras. The action
consists of cubic terms with coefficients being the structure constants of a
Jordan algebra. Coupling constants only enter the theory via symmetry breaking
which also selects a physical vacuum. "Before" the symmetry breaking the
universe is in a pre-geometric state where it makes no sense to talk about
space or time, but time comes into existence with the symmetry breaking
together with a Hamiltonian which can create space from "nothing" and in some
cases can propagate the space to macroscopic size in a finite time. There
exists symmetry breaking which results in macroscopic spacetime dimensions 3,
4, 6 and 10, based on the Jordan algebras of Hermitian 3x3 matrices with real,
complex, quarternion and octonion entries,respectively.
