Hinduism and Quantum Theory

Comparing Eastern philosophies and quantum physics reveals fascinating similarities that invite us to reconsider our understanding of reality.

The intent of the book is to explore the surprising connection between the ancient philosophical traditions of Hinduism and the principles of quantum physics. An initial part explains in a totally understandable way the basic principles of quantum physics and the philosophy related to this new science. In the sequel, an evocative journey, leads the reader to discover how these two seemingly distant realities can interact and influence each other.

Hinduism, with its profound metaphysical principles, offers a framework that seems to anticipate in many respects the discoveries of quantum physics. The book compares some of the major themes of Hinduism with their corresponding quantum notions.

Brahman represents ultimate reality, an interconnected whole that permeates everything. This aligns with the concept of quantum entanglement, in which particles can remain connected regardless of the distance between them, and suggests that separation at the fundamental level may just be an illusion. One of the Upanishads reads, "All this is Brahman," highlighting universal interconnectedness, and recalls the Higgs field, which gives mass and wave nature to particles.

Atman, the individual soul that is a manifestation of Brahman, can be viewed through the lens of quantum superposition, in which one particle exists in multiple states simultaneously. This reflects the idea that the true essence of the self exists on multiple planes of reality.

The concept of Karma is based on the law of cause and effect, parallel to Heisenberg's indeterminacy, where the precision of one measure affects that of another. Actions in the present can thus influence future outcomes in ways that are not always predictable.

Moksha, liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth, finds a parallel in quantum decoherence, the process by which a quantum system loses its quantum properties. This transition represents the transformation of consciousness from one state to another, analogous to the quest for spiritual liberation.

Dharma, or each person's ethical duty, is reflected in correlations between particles, where interactions influence the behavior of a complex system. Any action taken in accordance with Dharma can have long-term effects; similarly, quantum relationships shape our universe.

It should be pointed out that this book deals with Hindu philosophy, not Hindu religion.

This distinction takes on particular relevance in the context of quantum physics. While Hindu religion deals with devotion and the cosmic order established by deities, Hindu philosophy offers a framework for understanding a complex, interconnected and constantly changing reality. For example, the idea of Maya-the illusory perception of the material world-has parallels with the uncertainty principle in quantum physics, according to which we cannot simultaneously know precisely the position and velocity of a particle.

Finally, religion is a collective and ritual path, while philosophy is a more individual and contemplative path. Both enrich Hinduism, but with different perspectives and goals. In religion one seeks union with the divine. In philosophy one seeks an understanding of being. The two dimensions, therefore, coexist but offer different tools for exploring the same reality. As Swami Vivekananda told the World Parliament of Religions in 1893, "Hinduism is not a religion, but an infinite wealth of human experience." A phrase that perfectly sums up this richness and complexity.