Religions in a Secular World

The task of astrotheology is to speculate on the theological, cultural, and ethical implications of space exploration, especially the exploration of astrobiologists into the (1) origin of life; (2) a second genesis of life; and (3) expansion of life beyond earth. When assumptions within the field of astrobiology are examined, we find that the Darwinian model of evolutionary development is imaginatively projected onto extrasolar planets; and this model includes a built-in doctrine of progress. The assumption of progress within evolution permits astrobiologists to look forward to contact with an extraterrestrial civilization that is more intelligent and more advanced than that on earth. Such an extraterrestrial civilization will allegedly have an advanced science that can save earth from its primitive and under-evolved propensity for violence. However, no empirical evidence for a more highly evolved or advanced civilization currently exists, despite these beliefs. The theologian labels the constellation of scientific assumptions here the “ETI myth.” Astrotheology celebrates hard-nosed empirical science and even encourages space exploration; but the mythical assumptions regarding the doctrine of progress within evolution are here given critical analysis.     

Implications for the Discovery of Extraterrestrial Life: A Theological Approach

Abstract

Recent remarks of Pope Francis spark anew an important discussion: are we alone in the Universe? The article follows traces of the idea of extraterrestrial life throughout philosophy, evaluates the current considerations about the probability of extraterrestrial life and discusses the potential implications for the discovery of such life from a theological point of view. This “thought experiment” covers basic insights on creation, revelation and redemption.     

Exomissiology: The Launching of Exotheology

Abstract :  The world's technologically advanced societies are actively engaged in space exploration. This includes locating possible planets supporting life and advancing earth's colonizing presence beyond the earth's atmosphere. Speculative (philosophical) theology has begun to engage the possibility of extra-terrestrial life through the study of exotheology . This article argues that exomissiology must inform and shape exotheology. Exomissiology affirms a "pluriverse", rejects the privatization and reductionism of faith, adopts a systems worldview, commits to an expansive and relational community based on a radical understanding of both creation and the Trinity, clarifies a vision of hope, and, embraces the church as the "plausibility structure" of the gospel.