Hawking’s view of the universe leads to some uncomfortable conclusions that don't align with reason of our experience.
Talking Points:
- If you believe that everything exists as a result of a cosmic accident, then there is no grounds for morality. Or at least there are no objective grounds for morality. If there is no intelligent force or being that created the universe, then there is no such thing as morality.
- If Hawking is right, then there is no such thing as human rights. If humans are just advanced monkeys, then human rights are just a fiction that we have created. Humans have no more right to exist and be happy than any other animal, or really than any other object in the universe.
- If Hawking is right, then there is really no such thing as good and evil. Nothing is inherently evil, it’s just something that we don’t like.
- Life is without objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value. Ethics are just a human fiction that we’ve created. Right and wrong, good and evil, truth and justice are all just fictions we’ve created.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What are your impressions of Hawking’s quote?
- Which implication do you find the most surprising? Why?
- What are some other implications of Hawking’s quote not covered in the video?
- What are some of your most important morals? Why do you have these? Where did these morals came from?
- Look up the definition of nihilism. How would you live life if it were meaningless? How is living a life of purpose different?
- How does living your life for God give you purpose? What can you actively do to live how God wants you to?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
