Is belief in God compatible with quantum physics?

Answer

Quantum physics, also known as quantum mechanics, is an application of mathematics used to describe the behavior of matter and energy at an unimaginably tiny scale. More than other specialized fields within the sciences, it is exceptionally challenging to explain quantum theories in layman’s terms. Quantum mechanics involves advanced physics, and much of what occurs at the quantum level is counterintuitive. It does not follow the same cause-and-effect flow observed at larger scales. Describing quantum-level events often demands a profound understanding of mathematics and physics.

The theories of quantum physics help clarify why changes in physical objects at nanoscopic scales only happen in discrete amounts, referred to as quanta, and why these objects exhibit characteristics of both waves and particles. Quantum mechanics also demonstrates that, at these minuscule distances, cause-and-effect relationships operate based on probabilities rather than predetermined, specific outcomes. Like most other physical theories, quantum physics evolved over many decades through the contributions of various scientists. However, as far as theories go, it is relatively recent, having gained acceptance from the scientific community only in the past century.

In everyday life, quantum physics seldom has a noticeable impact. One distinction between classical and quantum physics is that interactions at the quantum level follow a probability distribution, not a clearly defined, absolute cause-and-effect reaction. Nevertheless, as a system incorporates more interactions, the likelihood of extreme outcomes diminishes. Consequently, large-scale systems are indeed well-defined and absolute, allowing for accurate predictions. The significance of quantum mechanics lies in elucidating these minute transactions, which are valuable in theoretical physics and advanced design, though not always practical.Ally meaningless to the average person’s daily experience.

Two aspects of quantum physics are often mentioned when discussing God or religion. The first is the nature of observed cause and effect in quantum-level interactions. Actions and reactions at the quantum level can seem to violate barriers such as the speed of light and/or occur without a logical relationship between cause and effect. Depending on how one chooses to interpret the observations, this property either makes God’s existence seem more likely, as it provides an unpredictable opening for some unknown “choice,” or it makes God’s existence less likely, since it makes what is normally considered impossible just a question of long odds.

The second common issue relating quantum physics to spirituality is the Many Worlds hypothesis. This arises from the wave-particle duality demonstrated by quantum physics and the need for probability rather than an objective, determined system. Since there are many possible states of a measured system and no objective way to know which ones do or do not exist, some philosophers claim that all of them exist, simultaneously, in parallel universes. Of course, there is no physical evidence to support this. The theory persists mostly because it helps deflect fine-tuning and intelligent design arguments, as well as evidence suggesting a universe of a finite age.

The Bible asserts that God’s handiwork can be seen in creation (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20). The early pioneers of modern physics were mostly theists, particularly Christians, and they did not view their discoveries as eliminating God. Instead, they saw them as illuminating God’s methods. John Polkinghorne exemplifies this approach, particularly in relation to quantum physics. Polkinghorne, a lifelong Christian, is one of the scientists credited with discovering the sub-nuclear particles known as quarks, a crucial component of the quantum model. He retired.

He retired after twenty-five years of teaching at Cambridge to become an Anglican priest. His scientific credentials are so strong that even assertive anti-theists, such as Richard Dawkins, struggle to dismiss his faith as delusion or confusion.

Ultimately, the impact of quantum mechanics on one’s perception of God has little to do with physics and much to do with personal beliefs. The scientific approach has been a highly successful method of uncovering how God achieved certain aspects of His creative work. Understanding the physical mechanisms of the universe does not alter the reality that there is a Designer and Creator who established them. Quantum physics, like any other scientific field, is entirely consistent with the Bible’s teachings about God.