Theory 15: All of Existence Floats, and Its Motion Is Forward
1. Floating in physics: buoyancy and the balance of forces
Buoyant force is the force exerted by a fluid on an object immersed in it, counteracting the object's weight. This force equals the weight of the fluid displaced by the object, and depends on the relative density of the object and the fluid.
Steel ships, despite being denser than water, float because of the large volume of water they displace. If the buoyant force exceeds an object's weight, the object rises, as with a helium balloon in air.
Forward motion through a fluid depends on the balance between propulsive force, such as a ship's engine, and resisting forces such as friction or air resistance.
2. Motion in existence: philosophical and scientific concepts
Perpetual motion in the cosmos: according to philosophical and mystical texts, the whole of existence, from the Earth to the Sun and the galaxies, is in motion, and stillness has no real meaning. This motion may point to progress, evolution, or continuous change. The Quran also refers to the ordered motion of celestial bodies along fixed paths, an idea that resonates with modern theories such as the expansion of the universe.
Forward motion in human philosophy: some texts emphasize humanity's movement toward illumination or spiritual progress, a motion that requires reflection, choosing the right path, and passing through stages of growth.
3. The difference between physical buoyancy and philosophical motion
Physical buoyancy is a mechanical phenomenon explained by the laws of Newton and Archimedes. Philosophical motion, by contrast, refers more to the dynamics of life, change, and progress; stillness, in this sense, is often treated as equivalent to decline, while forward motion requires conscious effort.
4. Combined examples of buoyancy and motion
A diver in water experiences buoyant force due to pressure differences at different depths, and rises or descends by adjusting body density with equipment. A helium balloon inside an accelerating car moves opposite to the direction of acceleration because of its relative lightness compared to air, a combination of buoyancy and the laws of dynamics.
5. Conclusion: the connection between floating and forward motion
Physically, buoyancy results from a balance of forces, and forward motion requires propulsive force. Philosophically, the forward motion of existence may point to evolution, change, or the universe's underlying purposefulness, an idea expressed in various ways across religious and mystical texts.
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