Why Space is No Problem for Religion ... But Time is

Space exploration might seem like it would pose a threat to human religion, both religion-in-general and various religions-in-particular. However, this paper argues that it is not predominantly discoveries in space that might cause problems for religions, but rather the ongoing passage of time which...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Theology and science 2024-01, Vol.22 (1), p.15-27
Main Author: Green, Brian Patrick
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
ethics
extraterrestrial intelligence
extraterrestrial life
religion
scenarios
Space
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Space exploration might seem like it would pose a threat to human religion, both religion-in-general and various religions-in-particular. However, this paper argues that it is not predominantly discoveries in space that might cause problems for religions, but rather the ongoing passage of time which will do so. By examining six scenarios, various salient concerns will be investigated, but it is really only the danger of overtly, actively hostile extraterrestrial intelligences that pose an existential threat to human religions. Other than that extreme possibility, the time horizon of the scenario - 100 years - is likely to have more impact upon religion.
ISSN:1474-6700
1474-6719
DOI:10.1080/14746700.2023.2292923