Matter Quote by Rupert Sheldrake
![“[M]odern physics has definitely decided for Plato. For the smallest units of matter are not physical objects in the ordinary sense of the word: they are forms, structures, or – in Plato’s sense – Ideas, which can be unambiguously spoken of only in the language of mathematics.” quote by Rupert Sheldrake](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/219/rupert-sheldrake-11866_physics_m-odern-physics-has-definitely-decided-f_2733720.jpg)
““[M]odern physics has definitely decided for Plato. For the smallest units of matter are not physical objects in the ordinary sense of the word: they are forms, structures, or – in Plato’s sense – Ideas, which can be unambiguously spoken of only in the language of mathematics.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Science of Spirituality, 2015
Modern physics aligns with Plato’s view that matter’s smallest parts are abstract forms, best described mathematically rather than physically.
In simple terms: Physics sees matter as mathematical ideas.
Key Takeaway
Embrace abstract thinking in science.
Themes
philosophy of science
mathematics
Platonism
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
academic
When to use this quote
- research
- education
- theoretical work
Key Concepts
quantum theory
abstract models
Questions to Reflect On
- How does Plato’s view affect scientific inquiry?
- Can math fully describe nature?
A Different Perspective
Mathematical abstraction may overlook empirical reality.
