In physics, particularly quantum mechanics, randomness is fundamental. For example, the behavior of particles is probabilistic rather than deterministic, which suggests that true randomness exists. However, some physicists propose deterministic interpretations of quantum mechanics, like the “pilot-wave theory,” which implies that what we perceive as randomness could actually be governed by hidden variables we don’t yet understand.
What are luck and magic? These are terms that we use for factors that we either do not understand or cannot measure in any practical way. If we knew every infinitesimal factor that went into any outcome, theoretically we could predict that outcome, but we don’t. We never know exactly how hard and what direction the wind will blow at a given nanosecond in time, so we must concede some ‘luck’ or ‘randomness’ in our equations.
The idea that particles (atoms, protons, electrons, neutrons, etc) all move in predictable ways set by unbendable laws of physics lends to the theory that once one particle goes into motion, all other particles in existence will react over time in one predictable pattern or outcome. If this is true, then there is no free will, we are all here by chance and fate rules all.
However, this theory does not take into account that particles acting upon another in a rigid predictable way are not the only forces upon the particles. If there are other energies put upon the particles, and these energies are determined by choices and preferences (ie ideas, imagination and thought) then indeed we have free will and any predictable pattern can be interfered with and altered at any time. This is where (times) divergence comes into play. Quantum physics also has proven that the energy of simply witnessing an event affects the outcome of the event!
So personally, I do not believe in fate (unless one chooses it), and I totally believe that we influence the physical universe around us (including the ‘randomness’ of a deck of cards). ; ) However, universal math is probably the most difficult law to bend, and the universe does not care what order the cards come in, so it is best to just trust the random distributions and play the odds accordingly for best results at the table.
- Determinism vs. Free Will: If pilot wave theory is correct, then the universe operates under strict deterministic rules. Every particle’s movement is guided by the pilot wave and determined by initial conditions. This could imply that all events, including human decisions, are ultimately the result of pre-existing conditions and not entirely “free.”
- Illusion of Free Will: Some interpretations might suggest that what we perceive as free will is simply the outcome of complex, deterministic processes occurring within our brains and influenced by our environment. If everything at the quantum level is predetermined, could our choices be predetermined as well?