This quote suggests that the universe, in all its complexity and vastness, cannot be understood or defined solely through quantifiable measures or figures. It implies that the universe is not just a mathematical or scientific concept but a profound entity that transcends numerical interpretation. The use of the word “figures” here is a play on words, referring both to numerical figures and the act of figuring something out, suggesting a limitation in our understanding when we rely solely on logical or numerical reasoning.
Watts is pointing to the idea that the universe is much more than what can be measured or calculated. It’s a holistic entity that includes not just physical matter and energy, but also consciousness, emotions, experiences, and phenomena that might not be quantifiable or explainable through traditional scientific methods. It suggests that to truly understand the universe, one must also consider these non-quantifiable aspects, and perhaps embrace a more spiritual or philosophical approach.
In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various ways. In science, it might encourage a more interdisciplinary approach, integrating not just physics and mathematics, but also philosophy, psychology, and perhaps even spirituality. It challenges the reductionist view that everything can be broken down into smaller parts and understood through analysis of these parts. Instead, it promotes a holistic view, considering the universe as a whole, interconnected system.
In personal development, it might suggest that one’s understanding of oneself and the world cannot be based solely on quantifiable aspects like income, physical health, or IQ. Instead, it encourages considering subjective experiences, emotions, relationships, and perhaps even spiritual experiences. It implies that personal growth and understanding require more than just logical reasoning or objective analysis, but also introspection, emotional intelligence, and perhaps even transcendental experiences.
Overall, this quote encourages a more holistic, integrative approach to understanding the universe and ourselves, challenging the dominance of quantifiable measures and promoting the importance of non-quantifiable aspects.
