Background
Theological studies and scientific research are often deemed as contradictory terms. In the field of cosmogony theories, experts frequently utilize only the experimental and observable approach. The modern academic scenarios generally concern the Big Bang or the string theories to explain the creation of the universe. However, some experts believe that one should not forget about philosophical and religious aspects of cosmogony, as contemporary science might benefit from the cooperation with theology. The current work sheds light on various approaches to cosmogony from a metaphysical perspective.
Connection Between Sources
In the contemporary world, the most prominent cosmogonic hypotheses include the Big Bang and the string theories. Even though it is extremely complicated to analyze such a topic, various experts have taken the initiative to explore the origins of the universe. It is crucial to note that not only physicists and astronomers are interested in the creation of the world, but also theologians. And while the scientific explanation and the concept of creationism differ drastically, frequently experts can find consensus on some of the cosmogonic theories.
In a discussion of the Big Bang theory, authorities provide the following theological perspectives. The first idea is that the scientific cosmogony theory does not contradict religious ones. Deman states that the Big Bang theory and the creationist idea complement each other (14). The former provides a thorough explanation from a physical perspective and states that the relativism of time before the Big Bang supports the creationist hypothesis (Deman 9). Accordingly, he believes that the theological perspective should remain as a discipline open to innovative ideas and scientific assistance (Deman 14). Lorkowski is another author that proposed the middle ground for both logical approach and theological ideas in terms of cosmogony. Arguably, for something to come into existence, some other force should cause it into motion, for nothing can be both a causative and a receiver at the same time. Lorkowski believes that this argument is generally accepted by both atheists and theists, and the only difference is the form of the force that put the universe into motion (Lorkowski 67). Therefore, the Big Bang theory and the mainstream creationist ideas do not contradict each other.
Furthermore, some authorities believe that the scientific approach provides further evidence for the theological ideas. According to Kurzynski, most mainline Christians accept the concept of creation ex nihilo which suggests the origination of the world from nothing. The consequent idea of creation continua, the continual process of creation, is also dominant in the Christian teachings and was adopted by Church Father Augustine (Kurzynski). His guidance implied the necessity of constant change and how vital it is for the connection with God (Kurzynski). Therefore, according to Kurzynski, the continual curiosity about the world and its origins, both from the theological and physical perspectives, is necessary for humankind to comprehend God. The idea of a mutually beneficial relationship between the scientific and religious approaches becomes more and more common in modern society. Kalachanis et al. also agree that the early Christian teachings are similar to the modern cosmogony theories (37). In their opinion, the supporters of each hypothesis should not compete, but rather unite forces in search of the truth about the creation of the universe.
Nevertheless, it is essential to note that not every authority in both scientific and theological fields agrees with the notion. Up to this day, it is common to see physicists deny the notion of God in the cosmogony theories and theologians not listen to scientific arguments. According to Kragh, the vast majority of researchers in the theology field reject the Big Bang theory and that it possibly supports the existence of God (30). The continual opposition is described by the following quote, “science is impotent with respect to theological doctrines and theology is of no direct relevance to science” (Kragh 31). The controversy about cosmogony was initiated with the development of technology and the possibility to observe the structure of the universe physically. Possibly, there will be no consensus on this matter until both scientists and theologians find the ultimate truth about the origination of the world.
Connections to Contemporary Issues
The controversies around cosmogonic theories are frequently connected to the existence of God or Gods. In many cultures and religions, the origination of the world is predominantly the work of a higher being. For instance, Rooyen describes several cosmogonic myths that explain the beginning of the universe via supernatural powers (3). These forces may include Gods, nature, mythical creatures, and celestial bodies, but they are all spiritual and cannot be fully comprehended by humankind. Such myths have played a crucial role in the development of certain nations, and one might still find their reflections in various cultures and religions (Rooyen 7). However, more importantly, they demonstrate the unending curiosity of humankind in the creation of the universe process. This issue has been concerning two thousand years ago and is still relevant today.
There are several other unique ways of how authorities utilize the concept of the origination of the universe referring to contemporary issues. For instance, Walker uses cosmogonic ideas concerning space and time to provide insights into racial identity and religious diversity (13). Utilizing these concepts, the author analyzes the Atlantic World interactions and proposes that they had a powerful impact on American culture (Walker 14). In the contemporary world, the issues of race and religion are extremely relevant, and, therefore, one should aspire to learn more about them.
The west theological tradition generally revolves around Christianity and its opinions on the origination of the universe. However, the dogmas from the East might also provide relevant insights on cosmogony theories and help us reflect on modern society as well. In ancient China, the anarchic political structure was derived from cosmogonic principles, and its main objective was to go back to the origins of humankind (Steavu 300). Steavu implements this idea of cosmogonic reversion and compares it with the western societies of the recent past. For instance, some philosophers of the Renessainse period were eager to go back to the origins of society since the injustice and inequities of the time were forced by civilization (Steavu 326). This case demonstrates how cosmogonic principles might be applied to contemporary issues.
Connection to the Context
Cosmogony theories make little impact on the daily lives of ordinary people since the topic is so complex and specific. However, it would be false to assume that we cannot learn anything from the notion. First of all, the examples mentioned in this paper provide thoughtful material to grow not only as a professional but also as a person. The theological and scientific perspectives, which may seem contradictory on the surface, have much in common and could be utilized together for better results. Despite the potential achievements, the collaboration of disciplines is frequently underestimated by experts due to the ego and close-mindedness. Therefore, one of the teachings of the current paper is to be conscious and open-minded to opportunities that other positions offer. Secondly, the cosmogony notion promotes the innate curiosity of a human about his origins as an individual and the origins of the world he or she lives in. For thousands of years, philosophers and researchers attempt to answer this question and have produced multiple fundamental treatises in the process. This issue is one of the engines of progress for humankind.
While cosmogony theories do not provide any specific knowledge to ordinary people, the situation changes drastically when it concerns theological and scientific occupations. Physicists, astronomers, and theologians directly identify and utilize the information about the creation of the universe. For the past century, there were several discoveries in the field of quantum physics that redefined the whole notion of cosmogony. The Friedmann equations in 1922, findings by George Gamow in 1948, and the establishment of the term “Bing Bang” in 1949 – these discoveries changed the world of quantum physics (Kalachanis et al. 33). Nevertheless, there are still uncertainties about the Big Bang theory, namely, experts cannot exceed the Planck era, the limit of 10-43 sec, in their research (Kalachanis et al. 35). However, this issue is still to be resolved, and such challenges might motivate aspiring scientists in their future works.
Evaluation and Reaction
Cosmogony is an extremely complicated topic due to the fact that both factions, the physical and theological approaches, cannot possibly be certain in their findings. Both the Big Bang hypothesis and creationist beliefs have gaps in their comprehension of the cosmos. Perhaps, it is more convincing to use the Big Bang as a starting point of time in the world (Kragh 26). But following this concept, the differences between the physical and theological approaches are narrowed down and generally refer to one point in time. Looking at the discussion vaguely, one might find it futile and not worthy of consequent research. After all, both parties argue about the same notion but in different terminology. However, it is exactly why the cosmogony theories are worthy of a thorough analysis and discussion.
Following the ideas of the mentioned authors, such as Devan, Kragh, and Lorkowski, it is essential that opposing authorities unite in their search for the truth of the universe. Kragh states the following, “The question of the relationship between big bang cosmology and divine creation has been discussed endlessly but without much coming out of the discussion” (29). Deman further promotes, “Theology is, and, should remain a dynamic discipline, open to learn from and engage in dialogue with other disciplines” (14). Lorkowski supports, “If both sides posit something utterly peculiar, and only intuition tells us which is less peculiar, then it becomes very difficult to call one’s opponent wildly irrational” (72). It is becoming more evident that the rivalry of theological and scientific approaches might provide great results, but only in the case of proper communication between the parties. Therefore, through the unification of disciplines, the controversies about the cosmogony theories might cease, and humankind will unravel the mystery behind the origin of the universe.
Works Cited
Deman, Isaak. “From Big Bang to heat death? Theological considerations concerning modern cosmological issues” Theology in Scotland, vol. 25, no. 1, 2018, pp. 6-17.
Kalachanis, Konstantinos, et al. “The Theory of Big Bang and the Early-Christian Teaching about the ‘Ex Nihilo’ Creation of the Universe” European Journal of Science and Theology, vol. 15, no. 2, 2019, pp. 31-37.
Kragh, Helge. “Cosmology and the Origin of the Universe: Historical and Conceptual Perspectives” Orígenes, 2017.
Kurzynski, James. “Understanding the Interplay Between Creatio Ex Nihilo and Creatio Continua” Sacred Space Astronomy. 2016. Web.
Lorkowski, Chris. Atheism Considered. Springer International Publishing, 2021
Rooyen, Johan A. van. “Cosmogonic or creation myths A mythical, philosophical and theological interpretation of the diverse cosmogonic myths: In conversation with Charles Long” HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies, vol. 76, no. 1, 2020, pp. 1-8.
Steavu, Dominic. “Cosmogony and the Origin of Inequality” The Medieval History Journal, vol. 17, no. 2, 2014, pp. 295-335.
Walker, Malik J. M. “Terraforming Religious Consciousness: Race as a Signifier in New World Religious Cosmogony.” Religions, vol. 11, no. 8, 2020, pp. 1-14.