“God may exist, but science can explain the universe without the need for a creator.”
- January 8, 1942 – March 14, 2018
- British
- Theoretical physicist, science writer
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Quote
“God may exist, but science can explain the universe without the need for a creator.”
Explanation
In this quote, Stephen Hawking expresses a perspective that blends openness to the possibility of a higher power with a strong belief in the explanatory power of science. He suggests that even if God exists, it is not necessary for explaining the workings of the universe. This viewpoint reflects Hawking’s stance on the self-sufficiency of scientific explanation. According to him, the universe can be understood entirely through the laws of physics, without invoking the idea of a divine creator who actively shapes or sustains it.
Hawking’s beliefs are grounded in his theoretical physics work, particularly his contributions to the understanding of black holes and cosmology. For example, in his book A Brief History of Time, he explores the origin of the universe, the Big Bang theory, and the possibility of a unified theory of physics—all in terms of scientific laws. He suggested that the universe could have come into existence spontaneously from “nothing,” as a result of quantum fluctuations and the properties of space-time, without the need for a creator to initiate the process. This view aligns with his famous quote about the universe being governed by “the laws of science” and not requiring divine intervention.
In modern times, this perspective resonates with many who see science as the most reliable tool for understanding the natural world. It challenges the traditional view that a creator is necessary to explain the origin of the cosmos. However, Hawking’s stance also acknowledges that the question of God’s existence is a matter of personal belief, and while science can describe the mechanics of the universe, it does not necessarily answer the deeper philosophical or spiritual questions about why the universe exists or the nature of existence itself. This leaves open the possibility for individuals to hold spiritual or religious beliefs while also embracing the power of science to explain natural phenomena.
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