The Tao of Physics
Fritjof Capra
Wildwood House 1975
A Ph.D holder in Physics,
Capra explores two diverse
perspectives – the rational and the spiritual trying to see if the twain shall
meet.
Modern science is the art of understanding life by looking at the dynamics of it with clear and logical insight – that of a
scientist’s. What if Eastern mysticism which has for 2000 years before science
rationally explained everything, stated the unified nature and harmony existing
in the universe we live in.
He begins by showing how ever since science began
to establish its theories and postulates , the Cartesian division has had major implications
for science. Descartes’ philosophy has been the driving force behind the
scientists understanding of nature. For the scientist, the mind has had always
had an edge over matter. But this has always led to conflicts between conscious
will and the involuntary instincts.
We all believe what we see – the multiplicity of things;
but, for the truly enlightened, the multiplicity disappears. And, this is what
Capra intends to co-relate and prove with evidence from the world of
science.
Eastern mysticism has always
held the dynamic view that time and change are essential features of the
universe. The Yin and Yang of the Chinese mystics which stand for the natural
balance, unity and inter-relation of all things and events are shown as the
natural order of symmetry found in science and the natural world around us.
So, how does Capra relate to this as a scientist?
He takes up the basic principle of science – all material
objects are made of atoms – these atoms link to form enormous variety of
molecular structures which are not rigid and motionless, but oscillate according
to their temperature and in harmony with the thermal vibrations of their
environment. This co-relation is
something that I can accept – because, I believe it answers my question of where I am and what
I am. I know that if one is pure, he/she reaches the purest form called God.
After reading the book, I now know if one’s atoms are of the purest intensity,
vibration and frequency, then it becomes one with the vibrations and intensity
of the purest atoms of particles found in the universe – something which I can
call God?
His explanations are unblemished and the parallels , most striking. To a
Western mind, bringing together the mind and the matter is rather difficult;
however, to someone who is beginning to understand the truth behind the ultimate degree of oneness with a form that I call God, Capra
is absolutely believable and what’s more, scientifically valid.
So, when this degree of oneness is realised, then all of mankind will cherish all forms of life around us and respect all beings - animate and inanimate, as part of and extensions of oneself. And, this is what Capra addresses at the end.
I liked the book for its desire to take us from our
intention 'to dominate and control nature to an attitude of co-operation and non
violence – an attitude of spiritual traditions’.