It is an idea that has been considered throughout the ages, yet no one has a conclusive theory. In mathematics, it is represented through zero, in science it is a void or dark matter, and in color, it is represented as black. If you think about it though, we are giving it substance by representing it at all, through numbers, letters, or whatever. By definition it is “something that is nonexistent”, which is in itself a contradiction. Who’s to even say that “something” is, in fact, supposed to occupy that void?

Through science we look at space. It is said that space is infinite, yet keeps expanding. Expanding where? What is beyond infinity? Let’s assume, for the sake of arguing, that we use the term “infinite” as a way to describe something that is immeasurable to us. What is the universe expanding into? Is it really a vast wasteland that has the unthinkable nothing occupying any space? No time, space, density, color, occupants? Is it just dark matter that sucks things into the unknown? However, even dark matter is said to occupy space(about 26% of the known universe). Does anyone else’s head hurt?

Mathematically, the number zero is a way to explain the absence of a thing. If you have two apples and take two apples away, you are left with zero apples. Given that example, are we to assume that something is actually supposed to fill that void? Perhaps instead of nothing being something that is nonexistent, it is the absence of a certain thing.

Let’s take a look at religion. Some religions believe that existence within a void is heavenly. Buddhists believe that Nirvana is an absolute state of peace and enlightenment within nothingness. Zen masters and certain martial artists believe in finding zen through a void mindset; having no thoughts whatsoever, but only reacting. Ironically, enlightenment or zen (living in a void mindset) is not considered a plane of existence as much as it is a moment of clarity. When you realize something you didn’t know or realize previously. You fill a void, so to speak. Let’s consider god, for a moment. What is god? Can you touch or see “him”? A quote from Ghost in a Shell enlightened me by explaining that “god and zero are the same. One is expressed alphabetically, the other numerically, but they are both the existence of nonexistence.”

“Nothing”, as a theory, will be debated for years to come. Today, we study dark matter to try to grasp a concept of it. However, I think the more we think about it and try to explain it, we are giving it more substance and are becoming farther away from the actual concept. We cannot expect to understand the idea of nothing, at least in the realm we live in. Maybe that’s why the void in space is beyond our vision and touch, lost somewhere in "infinity". Maybe we just have to wait for Nirvana or enlightenment…which ever comes first.