Planets and the Possibility of Life beyond Earth.

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Title: Planets and the Possibility of Life beyond Earth.
Authors: Wiseman, Jennifer J. (AUTHOR)
Source: Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science. Dec2025, Vol. 60 Issue 4, p1101-1114. 14p.
Subjects: Extrasolar planets, Extraterrestrial life, Astronomy, Theology, Molecules, Physical cosmology, Outer space
Abstract: The question of whether life exists beyond Earth has intrigued humans throughout history. Millennia of speculation have fueled both philosophy and theology, with contemplations of the spiritual state of alien beings shedding new light on that state of our own species. The relatively recent first scientific detections of planets outside our solar system, followed by a surge in further exoplanet discoveries and study, are reinvigorating these ancient questions of life beyond Earth. Although extraterrestrial life has not yet been found, astronomy and cosmology are revealing a universe intrinsically connected to life, as stars generate the chemical building blocks needed for planets to form and for life to thrive. This article summarizes new scientific advances in the discoveries of exoplanets, the search for life beyond Earth, and evolving habitability in the universe, setting the stage for fresh consideration by others of the rich theological implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Copyright of Zygon: Journal of Religion & Science is the property of Open Library of Humanities and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Database: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection
Full text is not displayed to guests.
Description
Abstract:The question of whether life exists beyond Earth has intrigued humans throughout history. Millennia of speculation have fueled both philosophy and theology, with contemplations of the spiritual state of alien beings shedding new light on that state of our own species. The relatively recent first scientific detections of planets outside our solar system, followed by a surge in further exoplanet discoveries and study, are reinvigorating these ancient questions of life beyond Earth. Although extraterrestrial life has not yet been found, astronomy and cosmology are revealing a universe intrinsically connected to life, as stars generate the chemical building blocks needed for planets to form and for life to thrive. This article summarizes new scientific advances in the discoveries of exoplanets, the search for life beyond Earth, and evolving habitability in the universe, setting the stage for fresh consideration by others of the rich theological implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:05912385
DOI:10.16995/zygon.19785