The question of whether there is an unchanging thing in the universe or if everything is in constant change has been a subject of philosophical inquiry for centuries. Different philosophical schools and perspectives offer varying viewpoints on this matter.
One school of thought, exemplified by the philosophy of Heraclitus, argues that everything is in a state of constant flux and change. According to this view, the fundamental nature of reality is characterized by impermanence and continual transformation. Heraclitus famously stated, "No man ever steps in the same river twice," emphasizing the idea that everything is in a state of constant motion and change.
On the other hand, other philosophies, such as those influenced by Plato, propose the existence of unchanging and eternal forms or ideas. Plato believed in a realm of perfect, immutable forms that exist independently of the physical world. According to this perspective, the physical world we perceive is merely a reflection or imperfect copy of these eternal and unchanging forms.
From a scientific perspective, we understand that the universe undergoes constant change at various scales. Stars are born and die, galaxies collide, and even the atoms that make up matter are in a constant state of motion. The concept of entropy in thermodynamics also suggests that systems tend to move towards a state of disorder and increasing randomness over time.
In summary, while there are philosophies and scientific principles that support the idea of constant change in the universe, there are also perspectives that propose the existence of unchanging elements or realms. Ultimately, the answer to whether there is an unchanging thing in the universe or if everything is in constant change may depend on one's philosophical, scientific, or metaphysical beliefs.