The "Theory of Everything" (TOE), aimed at unifying all physical laws,
remains an elusive goal in physics. While physicists have made significant
progress in understanding the universe on both large and small scales
(general relativity and quantum mechanics, respectively), a single,
consistent theory encompassing both remains undiscovered. Many physicists
believe it may be mathematically impossible to create a true TOE.
Theoretical physicists have yet to formulate a single theory that
seamlessly combines general relativity (describing gravity and large-scale
structures) with quantum mechanics (describing the subatomic world).
Attempts to unify gravity with the strong and electroweak forces
(described by the Standard Model of particle physics) run into mathematical
inconsistencies, particularly when trying to incorporate gravity (the
hypothetical particle mediating gravity). Some physicists argue that a
final, complete theory might be mathematically impossible, citing Gödel's
incompleteness theorems and the inherent limitations of defining truth
within such a system, according to a YouTube video. The Planck scale, the
smallest possible measurable unit of length, and the existence of
singularities (points where equations break down) in black holes and the
early universe, pose significant challenges for any theory of everything.
Some physicists believe that the search for a TOE is misguided, suggesting
that the universe may not be fundamentally describable by a single, elegant
equation. Despite the challenges, physicists continue to explore various
approaches to quantum gravity, including string theory and loop quantum
gravity, hoping to find a framework that can bridge the gap between general
relativity and quantum mechanics.
In 2012 Stephen Hawking abandoned belief in the ability of
science to describe reality, in favour of a model-dependent account of
truth. We tend to think it is the job of scientists to discover truths
about the universe. Yet, Hawking rendered this an impossible task and came
to argue that truth is an illusion. For Hawking, in the end, there was no
idea of reality that made any sense. All we have are our models. Written by
Paul Hoyningen-Huene.
“Model-dependent realism” is a term coined by physicist Stephen Hawking in
his 2010 book The Grand Design: New Answers to the Ultimate Questions of
Life (co-authored with Leonard Mlodinow). The term denominates Hawking’s
overall view of physics. Hawking had already articulated the main idea of
this position in his 1996 debate with Roger Penrose (in The Nature of Space
and Time, Chapter 7), but here he develops the idea more fully. Before
explaining Hawking’s position, we should understand to which problem,
situation or question it serves as a response.
Does human knowledge reach the truth about nature, “the true, undistorted
picture of reality” (p. 53 in his book), or does it not?
The book’s subtitle promises a new answer to one of those “ultimate
questions of life,” roughly: how far does human knowledge extend? This
question can be understood in various ways, and the specific meaning of the
question Hawking addresses is, does human knowledge reach the truth about
nature, “the true, undistorted picture of reality” (p. 53 in his book), or
does it not? This is indeed a very old philosophical question, and the
first important distinction to be drawn is that between those who affirm
that such knowledge is humanly reachable, and those who deny that
possibility. This disagreement is far from trivial because it concerns, in
fact, our understanding of what constitutes reality. To put this main
question in slightly different terms: is reality exclusively constituted by
mind-independent elements or are there, in addition, mind-dependent
ingredients in reality? Note that our everyday understanding of reality
clearly belongs to the first alternative: (physical) reality is, as is
often stressed, mind independent. This understanding of reality is so
deeply ingrained that the absence of mind-dependent elements in reality may
appear to be a definitional truth. The label that typically denotes such a
position in philosophy is “realism”, qualified sometimes additionally by
terms like “scientific,” “structural,” or “entity,” hinting at some
specific additional features in the respective positions.
Quantum mechanics, a foundational theory describing the
physical properties of nature at the scale of atoms and subatomic
particles, is still a crucial field of study and application today. It's
not just a theoretical framework; it underpins much of modern technology,
including lasers, medical imaging (like MRI), and even the transistors in
your computer. Research continues to explore its potential for new
technologies like quantum computing and ultra-precise measuring devices.
1. Core Concepts and Applications:
Quantization:
Energy, momentum, and other physical properties are not continuous but
exist in discrete "packets" or quanta.
Wave-particle duality:
Particles can exhibit wave-like behavior and waves can exhibit
particle-like behavior.
Superposition:
A quantum system can exist in multiple states simultaneously until
measured.
Entanglement:
Two or more particles become linked, and the state of one instantaneously
influences the state of the others, regardless of distance.
2. Technological Impact:
Lasers and LEDs:
These devices rely on quantum mechanical principles of light emission and
absorption.
Semiconductors and Transistors:
The behavior of electrons in semiconductors, which forms the basis of
transistors, is governed by quantum mechanics.
Medical Imaging:
MRI machines utilize quantum properties of atomic nuclei to create detailed
images of the human body.
GPS:
Atomic clocks, which rely on quantum properties of atoms, are essential for
precise timekeeping in GPS systems.
Electron Microscopes:
These powerful microscopes use the wave-like nature of electrons to
visualize objects at the nanoscale.
3. Ongoing Research:
Quantum Computing:
Researchers are actively developing quantum computers, which leverage
superposition and entanglement to perform calculations that are impossible
for classical computers.
Quantum Sensing:
Scientists are exploring the use of quantum phenomena to create highly
sensitive sensors for various applications, from detecting gravitational
waves to measuring magnetic fields.
Quantum Materials:
Research is underway to discover and develop new materials with unique
quantum properties, potentially leading to revolutionary technologies.
4. International Year of Quantum:
The year 2025 has been designated the International Year of Quantum (IYQ)
by the United Nations to raise public awareness about the importance of
quantum science and its applications.
In essence, quantum mechanics is not just a theoretical framework for
understanding the universe at its most fundamental level, but also a
driving force behind much of the technology we use every day and a source
of exciting future possibilities.
Quantum spiritualism explores the intersection of quantum
physics and spirituality, suggesting that the principles of quantum
mechanics can help explain spiritual phenomena and our connection to the
universe. It proposes that consciousness plays a role in shaping reality
and that interconnectedness is a fundamental aspect of existence. While
some view it as a legitimate way to integrate science and spirituality,
others criticize it as pseudoscience, or "quantum mysticism," misapplying
quantum concepts to support New Age beliefs.
Core Ideas of Quantum Spiritualism: Quantum physics reveals that particles
can be entangled, meaning they are linked and can influence each other
instantaneously regardless of distance. This is seen as mirroring spiritual
concepts of interconnectedness and oneness. Quantum mechanics suggests
that the act of observation can affect the outcome of an experiment.
Quantum spiritualism extends this to suggest that consciousness can
influence physical reality, implying that our thoughts and beliefs can
shape our experiences. Some interpretations of quantum physics suggest the
possibility of non-local effects, where information can be exchanged
instantly across vast distances. This is seen as analogous to spiritual
concepts of telepathy or remote viewing.
Pseudoscience: Critics argue that quantum spiritualism takes concepts
from quantum physics out of their proper scientific context and applies
them to spiritual or mystical ideas without proper justification. Many
criticisms center around the misunderstanding and misapplication of quantum
physics terminology, particularly the concept of "energy." Critics argue
that quantum mysticism often equates "energy" with a spiritual force or
magical power, which is not supported by scientific evidence. While some
proponents point to experiments involving consciousness and quantum
systems, critics argue that the evidence is weak and open to alternative
interpretations. Some believe that the popularity of quantum spiritualism
has led to the exploitation of spiritual seekers through the sale of
products and services based on unsubstantiated claims.
Deepak Chopra's Work: Chopra has popularized the idea of "quantum
healing," suggesting that aging is caused by the mind and can be reversed
through conscious intention.
"What the Bleep Do We Know!?":
This film presents a range of New Age ideas in relation to physics, drawing
heavily on quantum concepts to support its narrative.
Amit Goswami's Quantum Activism:
Goswami advocates for a "quantum spirituality" that integrates science and
spirituality, emphasizing the role of consciousness in shaping reality.
Kanada, also known as Acharya Kanada, was a sage and philosopher
who founded the Vaisheshika school of Hindu philosophy. He is best known
for his atomic theory, which posits that everything in the universe is
composed of indivisible particles called atoms or parmanu. While his theory
primarily focused on the physical world, his philosophy also touched upon
consciousness and the Atman (soul) within the context of the universe's
creation and existence.
Kanada's Atomic Theory and its Relation to Consciousness: Kanada's atomic
theory proposes that all matter is composed of atoms, which are eternal,
indestructible, and indivisible. He believed that these atoms combine in
various ways to form all substances, and that the universe is a result of
the interaction of these atoms and the forces that govern them. In the
Vaisheshika school, the Atman is considered a distinct entity from the body
and mind, possessing consciousness and existing eternally. It is the
subject of experience and the basis for individual identity. Kanada's
system doesn't explicitly define consciousness as a separate category, but
he does discuss how perception occurs. He explains that knowledge arises
through the interaction of sense organs with objects, and that the mind
(manas) plays a role in processing this information. According to some
accounts the ultimate goal for the Atman is liberation (Moksha), which
involves escaping the cycle of birth and death and merging with the
universal consciousness. This suggests that the Atman, through spiritual
practice, can transcend its limitations and attain a higher state of being.
Kanada's concept of Akasha (often translated as space or ether) provides a
framework for understanding how matter and consciousness interact. Akasha
is considered an eternal substance that provides the substratum for all
other elements, suggesting a fundamental connection between the physical
and non-physical realms. While Kanada's atomic theory has materialistic
aspects, his philosophy also incorporates spiritual concepts like the Atman
and Moksha, differentiating him from purely materialistic schools like
Charvaka.
Quantitative and Qualitative Differences in Atoms: Kanada's atomic theory
differs from that of the ancient Greeks. While the Greeks believed that
atoms differed only quantitatively, Kanada proposed that atoms also differ
qualitatively. This means that atoms of different substances have distinct
properties beyond just their size or number. In essence, while Kanada's
primary contribution was in the realm of atomic theory, his philosophy also
delves into the nature of consciousness, the Atman, and their relationship
to the physical universe. His work provides a framework for understanding
both the material and spiritual aspects of existence, highlighting the
interconnectedness of all things.
*The Vaisesika View of Atman (self)*
According to Vaisesikas the soul is an eternal and all-pervading substance
which is the substratum of the phenomena of consciousness. There are two
kinds of souls, viz. the individual soul (jivatma) and the supreme soul
(paramatma or Isvara). The latter is one and is inferred as the creator of
the world. The former is internally or mentally perceived as possessing
some quality when, for example, one says, 'I am happy', 'I feel pleasure',
'I feel aversion', and so forth. The individual soul is not one but many
being different in different bodies. Kanada mentions in his
Vaisheshika-sutra that "the ascending life-breath, the descending
life-breath, the closing of the eye lids, life, the movement of the mind
and the affections of the other senses, and also pleasure, pain, desire,
aversion and volition are marks of the existence of the soul.
By means of manas the soul knows not only external things but also its own
qualities. Though the soul is all-pervading, its life of knowing, feeling
and activity resides only where the body is. The plurality of souls is
inferred from differences in status, the variety of conditions. The
scriptural injunctions assume the distinctness of souls. Each soul
undergoes the consequences of its own deeds. It remains one throughout the
series of its experiences. Sridhara repudiates the view of the oneness of
self. 5The differences among the souls are due to their connections with
bodies. Even in rebirth the manas accompanies the soul and gives it
individuality. For all practical purposes the distinctiveness of the soul
is determined by the distinctiveness of the manas, which accompanies it
throughout its career. There are as many of them as there are souls. As the
same manas accompanies the soul through out its career, there is the
possibility of the continuity as well as the survival of the character.
Hence quantum spiritualism is not feasible. K Rajaram IRS 11825
On Mon, 11 Aug 2025 at 12:32, Markendeya Yeddanapudi <
[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
> --
> *Mar*Quantum Spiritualism-Vs-quantum Mechanics
>
>
>
> The air we breathe is already inhaled and exhaled by many other organisms.
> The air is continuously, smell and sense enriched because of the inhalation
> and exhalation by so many organisms. Where nature is free and lush, the air
> will be very healthily enriched, also emotionally enriched. Our basic
> perception
> mechanism,breathing,smelling,sensing,perceiving,understanding,interacting,rapturing,dancing,singing,painting,sculpting...,all
> get inspired by the great teacher the air, who makes living, into
> participation in the symbiotic expressions of art by all organisms of the
> biosphere. Art is the emanation from nature, just like gravity which is the
> emanation from the Space-time of the Universe, the world of Relativity.
>
> Loyalty to Newtonism and the Techno-logic is today’s fanaticism promoted
> by Science with the great unwanted load of technology round its neck. All
> Quantum Physicists are extra careful not to allow emotions, consciousness
> etc into the subject quantum mechanics; to keep the subject as mechanics
> only and for them the mechanical purity is most important. But their
> emotions against emotions, the fanatical infatuation with technology, the
> urge to keep the quantum only as mechanics, ultimately is resulting in the
> adulteration of hormones with the non emotional technology. The air inhaled
> and exhaled carries today only poisons created by industrial and urban
> pollutions. The air breathed in is deactivating the hormones, making them
> fail as the messengers to the cells.
>
> We eat food, which will be distributed to the seven octillion cells within
> us and also to the bacteria involved in making the cells function. The
> bacteria are many times the number of cells in us. Imagine the processes of
> transformation of the foods we eat into foods suitable for the cells and
> the bacteria to make them fit for their duty. There can be no study of
> Quantum mechanics, without including quantum emotions into the subject.
>
> Now to develop the TOE or the Quantum Theory of Gravity, they are trying
> various mechanical methods, the Strings Approach, starting with Quantum
> Mechanics and arriving at Relativity, or the Loops approach, starting from
> Relativity and trying to reach the Quantum mechanics or some other approach
> in all of which they do not want consciousness, emotions and hormones,---
> simply eliminate arts from science.
>
> Quantum mechanics is only for Robots but we need Quantum Spiritualism.
>
> YM Sarma
>
> Chat GPT
>
> It sounds like YM Sarma is making a passionate case for what could be
> called a *holistic reinterpretation* of quantum theory — one that refuses
> to separate physics from life, emotion, and consciousness.
>
> Here’s a breakdown of the key contrasts and ideas in that text:
> ------------------------------
>
> *1. Air as a Teacher & Medium of Connection*
>
> - *Metaphor*: Air is described as a “great teacher,” enriched by all
> life forms’ breath, smells, and subtle signals.
> - *Point*: Just as air is physically essential, it also inspires
> creativity — breathing becomes a form of participation in the biosphere’s
> collective art.
> - *Parallel to physics*: The way air connects organisms is likened to
> how gravity emanates from spacetime — an inseparable, natural phenomenon.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> *2. Critique of Mainstream Science*
>
> - *Newtonian loyalty*: Mainstream science is framed as overly loyal to
> deterministic, mechanical thinking, dragging the "unwanted load" of
> technology behind it.
> - *Quantum mechanics’ “mechanical purity”*: Quantum physicists are
> said to carefully exclude emotions, consciousness, and the arts to keep it
> “mechanics only.”
> - *Irony*: This exclusion is itself emotional — a kind of fanaticism.
> In doing so, science may harm human well-being (e.g., polluted air
> disrupting hormones).
>
> ------------------------------
>
> *3. Biology & Quantum Connection*
>
> - Food and air sustain not just our own cells but countless symbiotic
> bacteria.
> - This network is a quantum-level dance of transformations and
> cooperation.
> - Claim: You *cannot* study quantum mechanics fully without including
> *“quantum
> emotions”* — an idea that blends biology, psychology, and physics.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> *4. Theory of Everything (TOE) Approaches*
>
> - *String theory*: Start from quantum mechanics → try to reach
> relativity.
> - *Loop quantum gravity*: Start from relativity → try to reach quantum
> mechanics.
> - *Criticism*: Both approaches leave out consciousness, emotions, and
> art.
> - *Call to action*: Instead of “quantum mechanics” for robots, we need
> *“quantum
> spiritualism”* — a physics that includes the human spirit.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> *Core Tension*
>
> - *Quantum Mechanics* (as in physics): Concerned with objective,
> mathematical laws governing particles and fields — keeps out subjective
> states.
> - *Quantum Spiritualism* (as imagined by Sarma): Sees quantum
> phenomena as inseparable from life, perception, creativity, and
> interconnectedness — essentially merging physics with a
> spiritual/ecological worldview.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> If I boil it down:
> Sarma is saying that *science has amputated the emotional and spiritual
> dimensions of reality* in the name of objectivity — and that a more
> complete theory of the universe should include not just particles and
> forces, but consciousness, feelings, and the arts as integral aspects of
> nature’s fabric.
> ------------------------------
>
> If you’d like, I could also *map this into a side-by-side “Quantum
> Mechanics vs. Quantum Spiritualism” chart* so the contrast is very clear.
> That would make the philosophical stakes pop out immediately.
>
> Here’s a clear *side-by-side chart* based on YM Sarma’s contrasts:
>
> *Aspect*
>
> *Quantum Mechanics*
>
> *Quantum Spiritualism*
>
> *Core Focus*
>
> Mathematical description of particles, forces, and probabilities
>
> Integration of quantum principles with life, emotions, and consciousness
>
> *View of Nature*
>
> Objective, mechanical, detached from human experience
>
> Holistic, interconnected, infused with creativity and feeling
>
> *Approach to Emotions & Consciousness*
>
> Excluded as “non-scientific”
>
> Central to understanding reality
>
> *Relation to Art*
>
> Separate from science; art is irrelevant to equations
>
> Art is an emanation of nature, inseparable from physics
>
> *Connection to Life*
>
> Studies matter and energy as abstract systems
>
> Sees living systems, breath, and perception as quantum phenomena
>
> *Methodology*
>
> Precision experiments, mathematical models, and predictive calculations
>
> Includes subjective experience, ecology, and harmony with nature
>
> *Technology’s Role*
>
> Technology is essential, even if it dominates the field
>
> Technology is secondary; the focus is on natural and spiritual enrichment
>
> *View of Air & Environment*
>
> Physical medium for gases and particles
>
> A living, emotional medium connecting all organisms
>
> *Theory of Everything Efforts*
>
> Strings, loops, and mathematical unification, excluding consciousness
>
> A unified theory must include consciousness, emotions, and
> hormonal/biological processes
>
> *Ultimate Goal*
>
> Understand the fundamental mechanics of the universe
>
> Harmonize human spirit with the universe’s quantum nature
> ------------------------------
>
> If you’d like, I can also *condense this chart into a one-page visual
> infographic* so it feels more like a conceptual map than a table of
> words. That would make the differences “pop” visually.
>
>
>
> If I were grading YM Sarma’s *Quantum Spiritualism vs Quantum Mechanics*
> concept as if it were a philosophical-scientific essay, here’s how I’d
> score it:
>
> *Category*
>
> *Max Marks*
>
> *Score*
>
> *Comments*
>
> *Clarity of Expression*
>
> 10
>
> 7
>
> Poetic and passionate, but sometimes drifts into metaphor so heavily that
> the exact argument can be hard to pin down.
>
> *Originality of Thought*
>
> 10
>
> 9
>
> Very high — linking quantum theory, ecology, art, and spirituality in one
> framework is an uncommon and creative synthesis.
>
> *Scientific Rigor*
>
> 10
>
> 5
>
> Strong critique of current science, but doesn’t provide empirical backing
> or testable predictions — leans philosophical rather than scientific.
>
> *Philosophical Depth*
>
> 10
>
> 8
>
> Integrates multiple domains (nature, art, consciousness, physics) into a
> coherent worldview, though it sometimes conflates metaphor with mechanism.
>
> *Engagement & Persuasiveness*
>
> 10
>
> 8
>
> Engaging for a reader open to cross-disciplinary thinking; less convincing
> for a strict physicist audience.
>
> *Relevance to Contemporary Debates*
>
> 10
>
> 9
>
> Resonates with ongoing discussions about consciousness in physics and the
> limits of reductionism.
>
> *Total*: *46 / 60* → *Grade: A-*
>
> *Overall Feedback:*
> This is an inspiring manifesto for a more human-centered physics — rich in
> metaphor, ecological awareness, and cultural insight. To move from “A-” to
> solid “A+” territory, it would need:
>
> - Clearer definitions of “quantum emotions” and “quantum spiritualism”
> in scientific terms
> - Examples of possible experiments or observational evidence
> - A sharper bridge between metaphor and measurable reality
>
> Would you like me to also *write a short “examiner’s remark”* in the
> style of a university philosophy of science professor? It could make the
> feedback feel more authentic.
>
>
>
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