Atoms - not the cause
Krishnan Iyer
Vaisheshikas postulate that ……
- Atoms ( the smallest particle , and hence have to be sub atomic particles) are the cause of the world.
- Matter is divided and sudivided, we reach a stage beyond which no division is possible, the undivisible element of matter is Parmanu.
- The universe exists in the atomic state in the state of Pralaya or dissolution
- The atoms are imperceptible, indestructible and eternal.
- That except Akash (ether), all other elements were physically palpable and hence comprised miniscule particles of matter.
- These Parmanu combine with another , while in motion. When two Parmanu belonging to one class of substance combined, a dwayanuka (binary molecule) was the result. This dwayauka had properties similar to the two parent Parmanu. The unseen merits and demerits of the souls are the ones that set the atom in motion – Adhrushta , that unseen principle )
- An individual anu doesn't possess any property, but as it combines with another anu, a diatomic molecule ( dwayanuka ) is formed, which, in turn, combines with other three similar molecules to produce a tri-molecules ( trayanuka ) , only then the properties are perceived. These 'trayanukas' further combine to give the structure of gross bodies and their properties become suitable for direct perception.
- Atoms ( Paramanu ) are spherical ..but dyads don’t have the spherical nature of the atoms.
The very first point taken up by Sankaracharya is that ..the qualities of the atoms ( the Cause) not present in the effect ( Dyads and so on ) . hence the argument against Vedanta’s postulate that Brahman is the cause , on the ground that the World which is insentient originated from the sentient / intelligent Brahman , is not tenable. The same argument applies Vaisheshika’s postulate as well.
What Causes the motion and subsequently the combination of atoms . Adhrushta is
insentient and has to bepresent in the soul .Being present in soul) it can not set the motion
of atoms . If it is inherent in atom, as it being always present dissolution is never possible ,
for the atoms will always be active. Hence , there is no possibility for original motion in the
atoms ( without an efficient cause)
Atoms cannot be the cause also on account of Samavya (inherence) cited by Vaisheshikas
as this will lead to regressus infinitum. The dyads are said to be connected to the atoms,
which are their constituents. This connection is required as Dyads and atoms are said to be
of different qualities. However , since Samvaya itself being different from these ie. The Dyads
and atoms which it connects , another Samavaya will be required for this connection andthat
Samvaya will require another Samvaya , thus rendering the argument defective
Thirdly the nature of atoms ( if taken as the ultimate cause particles) cannot be permanent
activity or inactivity .If they are active always , dissolution is not possible. If , on the other
hand , they are inactive , creation is not possible. Their nature cannot be activity ( or,
integration ) and inactivity ( or, disintegration) as they are contradictory.
Atoms thus would require an efficient cause for their activity or inactivity .The earlier post
Has already taken up the issue of their eternality in detail.
Conclusion : Atoms cannot be the cause of the universe.
A Century after Rutherford’s findings and journey into quarks and Leptoquarks Science is struggling to identify the ultimate cause for the actions of these particles . Even is we accord
Vaccum which has to have energy as per t he singularity Theorems , what accosts energy to Vaccum would still remain a mystery, which will continue even if Higgs Boson are isolated.
P.G.KRISHNAN