The whole less than the sum of it's parts

Is it possible for the whole to be less than the sum of its parts?  For example, wheels are part of a car. Therefore a car has wheels, ipso facto.  And likewise, the Universe is comprised of intelligent beings.  Therefore the Universe must also possess intelligence, ipso facto.  And if so, can it be communicated with?  What does it say?  And can it hear our prayers?