Providence and the magnitude of the universe: A theistic argument for space settlements. Issue 2 (8th June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Weidemann, Christian
• Is Part Of: Dialog. Volume 61:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 96
• Page End: 101
• Publication Date: 2022-06-08
• Subjects: creation theology -- divine efficiency -- magnitude of the universe -- philosophical cosmology -- providence -- space colonization -- space settlements; Theology -- Periodicals; 230.41
• DOI: 10.1111/dial.12737
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0012-2033

Abstract

Abstract: Why did God create a vast universe? Various answers are discussed and rejected: (a) for its beauty; (b) to instill a sense of the sublime in his intelligent creatures; (c) to demonstrate his glory, (d) to provide a home for extraterrestrial species; (e) to guarantee that the natural emergence of (intelligent) life, though extremely rare, happens nonetheless somewhere; (f) for no reason at all, because the human notion of efficiency does not apply to God's actions. Instead, this paper suggests that the universe is intended for space settlements. Several objections to this proposal are considered and deemed unconvincing.