Expansion–Contraction as a Fundamental Principle of Nature: A Philosophical Thermodynamic Hypothesis

This paper advances a philosophical thermodynamic hypothesis proposing that expansion and contraction constitute complementary processes underlying natural phenomena across cosmic, physical, and biological systems. Rather than treating equilibrium as a final state, the framework reconceives it as a limiting condition approached through continuous heat–energy imbalance. By interpreting motion, stability, and life as outcomes of cyclical expansion–contraction dynamics, the paper offers a unified natural-philosophical perspective consistent with thermodynamic principles. The aim is conceptual clarification and unification rather than empirical or mathematical proof.