Engaging the Cosmos: Astronomy, Philosophy, and Faith

by Neville Brown

Overview

Written by an experienced author with a strong background in both history and earth sciences, this text explores the philosophic implications of the dramatic developments now under way in astrophysics and astrobiology. How close may this progress-empirical and theoretical-bring us to a definitive understanding of ultimate realities? What could it connote for the future of the great religious obediences? What might it mean for the evolution of a planetary consciousness that could be the key to the survival of our overburdened world? Are there not alarming possibilities, yet also very positive ones? Discussion takes full account of hard science in a manner accessible to lay people, where the arguments and observations presented are set firmly in a deep historical perspective. A fundamental conclusion and imperative for the coming century is that there are some shaky but tangible grounds for believing we are poised to enter an era in which relations much improve within and between the great religious obediences-between them and philosophical agnosticism-to the many who subscribe to no established faith but who would lay claim to a broad ethical concern and spiritual aspiration; and between all of these and the natural sciences. Throughout, the author provides compelling examples of cosmic norms-rooted in earth science, astronomy/astrophysics and historical example-to demonstrate the issues mankind faces in coming to terms with the universe, of which we are but a small part.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781903900673
Publisher:	Sussex Academic Press
Publication date:	06/01/2006
Pages:	367
Sales rank:	286,609
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Neville Brown is the award-winning author of 12 books, including Future Global Challenge; The Future of Air Power; Global Instability and Strategic Crisis; History and Climate Change, a Eurocentric Perspective; and New Strategy through Space. In 1990, he was elected a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Editorial Reviews

This is an unusual book which ranges across astronomy, philosophy, and faith as the subtitle promises. It embraces a study of the value systems and concepts which have come from major religions and other structure of belief. Ultimately Professor Brown seems to be fundamentally concerned with what human beings are and the meaning of human consciousness. . . . Well worth the effort for a wide range of readers, philosophers, scientists, and non-specialists.”  —Philosophy of Management

“Neville Brown brings a distinctive voice and a lifetime’s reflection to the discussion of both science and spirituality. He provides an engaging compendium of information on human evolution, emphasizing the critical role astronomy has played in redefining human self-perception. Eastern as well as Western cultures fall within his purview and he provides the grounds for welcoming the spiritual experimentation taking place within and across different religious traditions. This is a book for all who share his concern that in a shrinking world the choice between fanaticism and conciliation is becoming ever starker.”  —John Hedley Brooke, Andreas Idreos professor of science and religion, University of Oxford

“Professor Neville Brown has written a magisterial book on current relationships and debates involving astronomy, philosophy, and theology. His work on this broad and daunting topic is a highly creative and accessible analysis by a writer with unusual interdisciplinary strengths. Political, religious, and civic leaders—world-wide—would do well to heed this book’s message.”  —Milton C. Cummings, Jr., professor emeritus of political science, Johns Hopkins University

From the Publisher