Science, Religion, and the Nature of Existence

Sky & History Gravity & Light

Solar System

Stars

Galaxies

Universe

Life

Do you see a conflict between anything you have learned about astronomy and your religious or philosophical beliefs?

A) YesB) No

What is the essence of major religions?

What is the essence of love?

What is the essence of life?

One possibility: The root of major religions is a universal truth that would be recognized by any intelligent life form in the universe, namely that life is unique and deserves protection (i.e., “cosmic love”).

Only the lightest 3 elements were present when the universe was born.

All heavier elements were made in the centers of stars, either during fusion or during supernova explosions.

Is our universe “fine-tuned” for life by a higher being?

Is our universe one of many in a multiverse?

The fundamental physical constants of our universe fall within a narrow range that allows for the formation of

planets and life. The universe appears “fine-tuned” for life. How do you interpret this?

A) Many universes exist with a variety of physical constants, in which case it is logical that we would arise in a universe suitable for life.

B) There a single universe, and it has been has been fine-tuned for life by a higher being.

C) There is a single universe, but it has not been fine-tuned for life by a higher being.

Was Earth pre-destined to produce life and intelligence?

A) YesB) No

Why do we exist? Why does anything exist? Why did the Big Bang occur?

A) to love, know, and serve GodB) to love and be lovedC) the universe exists to produce life and consciousness;

we exist to be aware of the universeD) no reason. We’re just collections of atoms that take

themselves too seriously and search for meaning where there is none.

You could believe in multiple answers, but which is your single favorite?