From Nothing to Existence: Quantum Vacuum in Light of the Fundamentality of Existence

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Document Type : Research Paper

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1 PhD in Philosophy, Lecturer, and Researcher in Philosophy at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad

2 Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Theology, Shahid Motahari College, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

The emergence of the universe from "Nothing" continues to be one of the most challenging questions in both physics and philosophy. Lawrence Krauss, in his theory, identifies the quantum vacuum with "Nothing" and attempts to explain the Cosmogenesis without invoking a metaphysical cause. This study, drawing on the Fundamentality of Existence (FOE) in Mulla Sadra’s Transcendent Philosophy (al-hikmah al-muta‘āliyah), shows that the quantum vacuum possesses an ontological reality rather than being absolute Nothingness. According to Sadrian ontology, the quantum vacuum may be considered the weakest level of Existence within the gradational hierarchy of Existence (However, one may also argue—based on its proximity to immateriality and potentiality—that it paradoxically resembles a higher ontological intensity closer to Divine Simplicity. This dual reading remains open to further exploration). Furthermore, this paper critically examines Krauss’s assertion that physical laws alone suffice to account for the Cosmogenesis. From the perspective of the Fundamentality of Existence, physical laws are merely descriptive and contingent rather than self-sufficient causes. Thus, the Sadrian framework provides a deeper metaphysical foundation, revealing the limitations of Krauss’s scientific explanation and affirming that the cosmogenesis ultimately necessitates a cause beyond physical laws.

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Journal of Philosophical Investigations

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 14 September 2025

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