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A Universe with No Designer
Author(s) -
WEINBERG STEVEN
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2001.tb02135.x
Subject(s) - cosmology , universe , cosmological constant , philosophy , position (finance) , theoretical physics , constant (computer programming) , epistemology , physics , aesthetics , computer science , astrophysics , finance , economics , programming language
A bstract : Does the universe shows signs of having been designed by a deity like those of traditional monotheistic religions? Physics is in a better position than religion to give a partly satisfying explanation of the world. Recent developments in cosmology help explain why the measured values of the cosmological constant and other physical constants are favorable for the appearance of intelligent life. The presence of evil and misery disturbs those who believe in a benevolent and omnipotent God. It is not necessary to argue that evil in the world proves that the universe is not designed, but only that there are no signs of benevolence that might have shown the hand of a designer.