We all wonder about luck and fate, and there is no scientific explanation or logical way to explain why certain things happen; maybe it could be explained using some theoretical physics tools like quantum mechanics, but at the moment, it is beyond explanation.
Lack of control vs. Lack of free will
It is essential to point out that fate and luck sound similar, but conceptually, they are entirely different.
Luck is the favorable outcome of probability within the context of life's infinite possibilities. It acknowledges the role of chance and randomness in shaping our experiences. Luck implies a lack of control over the events that occur in our lives. In this view, the occurrence of luck is simply the realization of one of countless potential outcomes in any given situation.
Fate, on the other hand, is the idea that life events are predetermined or predestined. It implies a lack of free will and an acceptance of a higher power or force that controls our lives. In this view, we merely execute a predetermined script with no real control or agency over our lives.
So, while luck and fate may lead to a sense of powerlessness, they differ in their underlying assumptions about the nature of reality and the extent to which our actions can shape our future.
Can we explain Luck & Fate with quantum mechanics, spirituality, and philosophy?
Quantum mechanics can shed some light on luck, while fate remains more elusive to scientific explanation.
In quantum mechanics, particles' behavior is described by probabilities rather than certainties. The universe's probabilistic nature can be seen as a foundation for the concept of luck. The inherent randomness and uncertainty in quantum phenomena drive the seemingly unpredictable events that we attribute to luck.
On the other hand, fate is a more metaphysical concept that lies outside scientific inquiry. Science is rooted in empiricism and observation, and fate, as a predetermined course of events, doesn't lend itself to empirical investigation. While some might argue that deterministic interpretations of quantum mechanics could explain fate, such explanations remain speculative and unproven.
Spirituality or religions explain that fate can be defined using god/consciousness as a supernatural power. It is not as straightforward as some of your atheist friends or religious friends make it to be. We don’t know; we can’t disprove it, nor can we prove anything. Hence, it is more of a theory without any empirical evidence.
However, this deterministic view clashes with the principles of quantum mechanics, which suggest that the universe operates on a probabilistic level. In other words, while specific outcomes may be more likely than others, the exact course of events cannot be predicted completely. The idea of fate is not amenable to such empirical verification and thus remains a matter of faith and personal conviction.
So, while thinking about luck vs. fate, I realized I have more conviction in luck. Not only can it be justified or acknowledged with logical, rational, and scientific ways of thinking, but it also fits beautifully with philosophical and spiritual frameworks, as luck is often attributed to spiritual intervention, karma, or the alignment of forces. Additionally, luck can be examined through a philosophical lens as well. The Stoic perspective encourages us to focus on our own actions and character rather than worrying about the uncontrollable aspects of luck. In this view, a virtuous life is within our control, regardless of the external circumstances.
Conclusion: I am a believer in luck, not fate <maybe>
Hence, luck can be <somewhat> explained by quantum mechanics, religion/spirituality, and philosophy. At the same time, fate is a bit disturbing as it means we don’t have free will; everything is predetermined, which logically or spiritually doesn’t make sense.
If you are building something in the Nordics or Japan, I would love to learn more from you. Please reach out to me at nobody@firstfollowers.co.
Stay weird,
“Nobody”