Thesis: Physics often interprets probabilistic regularities as if they reflect providential ordering, subtly importing theological reasoning into stochastic processes.
Observation: Quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and cosmology describe chance events and probability distributions, yet popular accounts sometimes frame outcomes as “finely balanced” or “miraculously likely.” Even when presented mathematically, the narrative often implies that probabilities are purposeful — that the cosmos ensures certain outcomes, echoing divine foresight.
Analysis: This framing mirrors theological thought: the universe appears as if guided by a provident hand, even when formalism only describes statistical tendencies. Relational actualisation is obscured; events are interpreted as if orchestrated rather than emergent from interacting processes. Probabilities become secularised divine decrees, assigning intentionality to inherently contingent processes.
Implication: Treating probability as providential masks the relational dynamics of actuality. It encourages teleological interpretation and suppresses awareness of perspectival emergence. Contingency and process are subordinated to a narrative of cosmic guidance.
Conclusion: A relational approach treats probability as descriptive of patterns in relational processes, not as evidence of cosmic purpose. Recognising the theological residue in probabilistic reasoning clarifies that actualisation unfolds through contingent interaction, not providential orchestration.
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