Multiple Universes

Brief Outline

 Some cosmological theories propose the existence of multiple universes. These universes may exist one after the other (Cyclic theory) or all at the same time (Multiverse theory). According to Cyclic theory the universe is following an eternal series of oscillations, each beginning with a 'big bang' and ending with a 'big crunch.' In the interim, the universe would expand for a period of time before collapsing back in and undergoing a bounce. Multiverse theory postulates that multiple universes, each with randomly different properties, exist at once. Each universe began with a 'big bang.'

Worldview

Cosmologists have rejected the naturalistic Steady State theory and entrenched the Big Bang theory at the heart of modern cosmology. The Big Bang Theory is consistent with a theology of creation and is problematic for naturalistic philosophy. American physicist Steven Weinberg, who is a well known naturalist, identifies the issue:

"If you discovered a really impressive fine-tuning … I think you’d really be left with only two explanations: a benevolent designer or a multiverse."

Steven Weinberg, New Scientist, p.48, 6 December 2008

Cyclic theory and Multiverse theory are naturalistic variations on Big Bang theory. The highly improbable conditions for the development of life are overcome by the enormous number of universes postulated. If an enormous number of randomly different universes actually exist, then it is quite reasonable that one or two might have the conditions suitable for life to develop by chance and chemistry alone.

Evidence

There is no evidence of other universes, nor is it likely that we will ever be able to detect the existence of another universe. As a consequence, Multiverse theory is open to the significant criticism that it is impossible to falsify. This criticism may not be a problem in philosophy, but it is terminal for a scientific theory.

Cyclic theory requires the universe to eventually contract. However, research conducted in the 1990's by Saul Perlmutter, Adam Riess and Brian Schmidt led to the discovery that the expansion of the universe is accelerating, not decelerating as expected. The discovery casts significant doubt on the prospect that the universe will ever contract. Perlmutter, Reiss and Schmidt were awarded the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics for this discovery.

Speculation about the existence of multiple universes is viewed by theists as an attempt to avoid the conclusion that the universe provides ample evidence of its creator.