Abstract
Science fiction is often viewed as a way to escape reality and enter into a realm where any idea, no matter how farfetched it may seem, is possible. However, little do many people realize that some of these seemingly farfetched ideas are actual scientific theories. Among these lies the theory of the multiverse. Stemming from the big bang theory, the multiverse is a scientific theory created to explain the properties of the universe that are finely tuned for the existence of life. While the multiverse has many different theories within itself, the main idea is that the universe we observe to be finely tuned for life is only one of infinite possible universes, which can include both finely tuned ones and disastrous ones. For many scientists, this theory is an option to explain fine-tuning without intelligent design. However, this theory sits on shaky evidence and underlying assumptions. Even if true, when considering the scientific, philosophical, and theological perspectives on the multiverse, a divine creator can still fit in a multiverse theory. Contrary to common belief, Christianity and science can be complementary, even with topics as controversial and intricate as the multiverse. As the multiverse becomes an increasingly popular idea within both the scientific community and in popular culture, critical thinking about these ideas is vital. Introducing these ideas through science fiction works is one way to spark interest and critical thought.
Included in
The Science and Fiction of the Multiverse
Science fiction is often viewed as a way to escape reality and enter into a realm where any idea, no matter how farfetched it may seem, is possible. However, little do many people realize that some of these seemingly farfetched ideas are actual scientific theories. Among these lies the theory of the multiverse. Stemming from the big bang theory, the multiverse is a scientific theory created to explain the properties of the universe that are finely tuned for the existence of life. While the multiverse has many different theories within itself, the main idea is that the universe we observe to be finely tuned for life is only one of infinite possible universes, which can include both finely tuned ones and disastrous ones. For many scientists, this theory is an option to explain fine-tuning without intelligent design. However, this theory sits on shaky evidence and underlying assumptions. Even if true, when considering the scientific, philosophical, and theological perspectives on the multiverse, a divine creator can still fit in a multiverse theory. Contrary to common belief, Christianity and science can be complementary, even with topics as controversial and intricate as the multiverse. As the multiverse becomes an increasingly popular idea within both the scientific community and in popular culture, critical thinking about these ideas is vital. Introducing these ideas through science fiction works is one way to spark interest and critical thought.