Principles of Quantum Mechanics from Bhagavad Gita

Principle-1: Kinetic nature of the universe

 

Dr. Sudhirdas Prayaga

          Quantum mechanics originated in 1900 with Max Planck demonstrating that energy is emitted in discrete packets or ‘quanta’. Many of the principles of Quantum Mechanics can be found in Bhagavat Gita written over 2000 years ago. I will go over 7 of these principles in my next few postings.

          Mechanics is the study of motion. Quantum Mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with interactions of subatomic particles. According to physics, quantum is the smallest quantity or particle which is involved in an interaction. Based on our current scientific understanding Quantum Mechanics tries to explain the nature of reality by mathematical description of these subatomic particle interactions.

The Bhagavad Gita provides a philosophical framework for understanding the nature of the observer and the nature of the observer’s interaction with rest of the universe. This is akin to what modern physics and Quantum theory propose, a description of observations, the subject, and the object of observations. 

Quantum Mechanics describes the nature of physical reality through kinetic interaction of subatomic particles. It assumes that these subatomic particles are in constant motion and interaction (science has no answer to the question why it is so), without which there is no existence.  Similarly, Bhagavad Gita also says that nothing in the universe can remain motionless because of the nature of their qualities or ‘gunas’.  Ancient Indian philosophers (or scientists) had already recognized this fact.

nahi kaschit kshanamapi jaatu thishtatyakarmakrit

kaaryate hyavascha karma sarvah prakriti jairgunaih … Bhagavat Gita 3.5

          Vedas teach us that everything in the universe is in constant motion, except the Brahman or the Akshara or the supreme consciousness. Anything that is in motion should be in comparison to something immovable, for the universe that is the immutable Akshara or Isvara. Now Quantum Mechanics also agrees with this concept, that everything in the universe is in constant motion, from subatomic particles to cosmic bodies. Gita says that the whole universe functions due to yagna (or action) by the supreme consciousness (Akshara).

           karma brahmodbhavam viddhi brahamakshra samudhbavam

tasmat sarvagatham brahma nityam yagne prathishtitham … Bhagavat Gita 3.15

           I will post more quantum mechanics principles that can be found in Bhagavat Gita in next few editions. This is Dr. Sudhirdas Prayaga signing off. Thank you for reading this article. My other articles can be found on my blog: ‘prayagaprinciples.blogspot.com’.