Matter exhibiting self-organizing properties, as demonstrated in Epicurean atomism and later in thermodynamic dissipative systems, provides a parsimonious alternative that does not require positing an external ordering principle.

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Epicurean atomism(as a historical example of self-organizing matter): An ancient Greek theory that everything in the universe is made of tiny, invisible particles (atoms) that move and combine in different ways—developed by the philosopher Epicurus around 300 BCE.
Epicurus(the originator of Epicurean atomism): An ancient Greek philosopher (341-270 BCE) who argued that the universe is made of atoms moving through empty space, and that this physical process alone could explain everything we observe without needing a god or designer.
External ordering principle(as the alternative theory this statement argues against): An outside force or designer (like God) that supposedly organizes or arranges matter into ordered structures.
Parsimonious(as used in philosophy of science and logic): Simple and avoiding unnecessary complexity; preferring the explanation that requires the fewest assumptions or extra moving parts.
Thermodynamic dissipative systems(as a modern scientific example of self-organizing matter): Systems (like weather patterns or living organisms) that organize themselves by using energy to create order, while also releasing unused energy into their surroundings.

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