Contrary to Parmenides’ argument, the Atomists argued that “nothing” does, in a way, exist. It takes the form of empty space. As such, there are two fundamental principles that govern the physical world: empty space and filled space.

The filled space consists of indivisible atoms, which are tiny, indivisible, and unobservable. Within the framework of these “atoms”, there is, contrary to Parmenides’ position, constant change. Since these “atoms” exist, their motion is not only possible, but also inevitable. The Atomists concluded that everything that happens in the world is caused by these “atoms” colliding with each other. The activity and change we observe in the world is due to the effects of these collisions. This pluralistic view of reality became a dominant trend in philosophy for many later generations. Anticipating much of the deterministic positions taken by modern philosophy, Epicurus ventured to conclude that all our actions, on account of fundamental physical laws, are inevitable.

S: ‘Empty’ space or ‘filled space’ – two regions of existence leading to two potentially contradicting ideas: ‘pre-determinism’ or ‘free will’: Again the intuitive reasoning behind each concept appears to be indisputable on its own and irresolvable contradictory one to the other.

 The point: Free will can coexist with predetermined action. Both have a place within which to operate and both have a unique and critical function to fulfill within the new metaphysical model put forward by this work: The model:

Scientifically speaking:        symbiotic panentheism

Religiously speaking:          symbiotic panentheism