Steady State Theory

Brief Outline

Steady State theory was developed in 1948 by Fred Hoyle, Thomas Gold, Hermann Bondi and others at Cambridge University.

According to Einstein's Theory of General Relativity, published in 1916, a static universe is impossible. In addition, observations by Edwin Hubble had shown that the universe was expanding. Steady State theory proposed a mechanism that would allow the universe to expand without changing its appearance over time.

Hoyle proposed that the decrease in the density of the universe caused by its expansion is balanced by the continuous creation of matter. The matter condenses into new galaxies that replace receded galaxies. The expansion and creation work against each other and a steady state of energy is maintained.

Worldview

Hoyle found the idea that the universe had a beginning to be philosophically troubling, as many argued that a beginning implies a cause, and thus a creator.

“The big bang theory requires a recent origin of the universe that openly invites the concept of creation.”

Fred Hoyle 1983. The Intelligent Universe, p13

Hoyle argued that, although the universe is expanding, it did not have had a beginning. He was open about the fact that the theory was a naturalistic alternative to the Big Bang theory proposed 17 years earlier. Hoyle remained committed to Steady State theory long after other cosmologists had rejected it.

Evidence

Steady State theory was popular in the 1950’s and 60's, however, evidence steadily built up showing that the universe has changed over time. For example, very distant galaxies are mostly irregular in shape, while closer galaxies are mostly elliptical or spiral. The further away a galaxy, the longer it takes for its light to reach earth and the further back in time you are looking when you view it through a telescope. Thus it seems that irregular galaxies, common in the early universe, have evolved into spiral or elliptical galaxies today.

The final 'nail in the coffin' of Steady State theory was the discovery of the cosmic microwave background radiation in 1965, which was predicted by the Big Bang theory.

It is worth noting that, while the worldviews of Georges Lemaitre and Fred Hoyle significantly influenced the theories that they proposed, it was the weight of observable evidence that triggered the rejection of Steady State Theory by the scientific community, in favour of Big Bang Theory .