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A Fortunate Universe: Life in a Finely Tuned Cosmos ,
Author(s) -
Tripp Jeffrey M.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
reviews in religion and theology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1467-9418
pISSN - 1350-7303
DOI - 10.1111/rirt.13642
Subject(s) - universe , physics , physical constant , theoretical physics , gravitation , range (aeronautics) , philosophy , epistemology , astrophysics , astronomy , quantum mechanics , materials science , composite material
Certain physical constants, like the mass of an electron or the gravitational constant, are not determined by physical theory. Rather, physicists must determine them empirically. However, in case after case, physicists have also found that these constants fit within a narrow range of possible values that allow life to exist in our universe. Tweak them even slightly, and the universe becomes incapable of forming planets, molecules, or even atoms, much less complex lifeforms. It would seem the universe is fine‐tuned to permit life. Three sets of authors with scientific backgrounds attempt to understand the theistic implications of fine tuning. While their goals and approaches differ, their discussions highlight the potential fine tuning has to foster dialogue between science and theology.