Max Planck — "There is no matter as such! All matter originates and exists only by virtue of a…"

There is no matter as such! All matter originates and exists only by virtue of a force which brings the particle of an atom to vibration and holds this most minute solar system of the atom together. We must assume behind this force the existence of a conscious and intelligent mind. This mind is the matrix of all matter.
Max Planck — Max Planck Modern · Quantum theory

Get This Quote & Author's Image Illustrated On:

Click any product to generate a realistic preview. Up to 3 at a time.
* Initial load can take up to 90 seconds — revising the preview in another color is nearly instant.

Kitchen

Apparel

Other

Details

Das Wesen der Materie (The Nature of Matter), speech in Florence

Date: 1944

Shocking

Verification

Confirmed

Found in 2 providers: gemini,grok

2 sources checked

Understanding this quote

What it means

Planck argues that physical matter is not fundamental or self-existing. What we call solid stuff is really patterns of energy and force holding atomic particles in motion. Behind that organizing force, he claims, stands a conscious, intelligent mind that is the true source and foundation of everything material. In short, reality is mental or mind-like at its deepest level, and matter is a downstream effect rather than the starting point.

Relevance to Max Planck

Planck founded quantum theory in 1900 by proposing energy comes in discrete packets, shattering the classical view of matter as smooth and mechanical. His Nobel-winning work revealed atoms as dynamic systems of vibrating particles. A devout Lutheran who lectured on science and religion, he openly rejected materialism and believed a rational mind underlies nature. This quote distills both his physics and his lifelong conviction that science and spiritual conviction were compatible, even complementary.

The era

Planck spoke in early-twentieth-century Germany, when quantum mechanics and relativity were dismantling the Newtonian clockwork universe. Scientific materialism dominated intellectual life, while two world wars, the rise of Nazism, and the loss of his son Erwin to Hitler's regime shook his generation. Debates raged over whether physics eliminated God or pointed toward deeper mystery. Planck's public lectures pushing back against pure materialism resonated in a culture wrestling with meaning, faith, and the limits of reductionist science.

AI-generated insights based on extensive research and information for context. Factual errors? Email [email protected].

Your Cart

Your cart is empty