Thursday, April 22, 2010

Where Are We?

I had discovered a secret -- not to remain too long at one point, forever repeating the too familiar.

Constantine Stanislavski
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In ancient times astronomers were calculating from the premise that the Earth was the center of everything and that the heavens surrounded it. There were empirical and theological reasons for that premise. Today astronomers are telling us that there is no canter to the universe because there is no edge. How do they know there is no edge? Through physical and mathematical calculations. Through science. Through intelligent observation and research.

By their calculations we now know that the Earth is a minor part of a solar system circling around an insignificant star, that the whole solar system is an insignificant dot in a large galaxy which in turn is an insignificant dot in the vast universe of galaxies.

And if there is no center to the universe how do we know where we are? We don't, except in our relationship to other planets, stars and galaxies.

When we look up at the night sky everything seems so serene and constant, and yet the astronomers are telling us that the universe is a very busy place, constantly creating, destroying and recreating pieces of itself.

Because it has no edge we will never explore it all, we will never know it all.

These discoveries have and should have redefined physics, philosophy and theology. It is veritable that old ideas are hard to discard. Is it fear that keeps people from facing the true meanings of scientific discovery? Or is it the discouraging fact that we will never know it all? Is it easier just to hold on to the fence post than to face the endless and understand it? Are the journeys of the scientist, engineer, technician and artist pointless if they have no destination?

If there is no edge to the universe then there is no edge to consciousness, and no center. But is it consciousness which makes us significant after all, no matter where we are? Is there intelligent life on other planets? Probably. But if not, at least there is on this one, if we are willing to start using it.

DB - The Vagabond
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SPRING QUESTION
(This is not a contest.)

In your opinion what is the most amazing thing that could happen during this decade? Make it as outrageous as you want but keep it within the realm of what you consider a possibility.

Only 4 responses so far.

Answers will be published the first day of Summer.

dbdacoba@aol.com

DB - The Vagabond
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7 comments:

Silver said...

I have been lingering for a longer while today because i have been missing out many visits due to my new work.

I felt sad reading your earlier post .. on the life you wished you had. It is honest, sincere and right out from your heart. Like E Toole would have said, we should try to live life in the moment, and that moment is now. Whatever it is.. grab any moment that makes you smile or your heart sweet.. for that is life.

Sending you lots of warm thoughts and prayers of healing and peace..


~Silver

Gerry said...

I think what if we discovered we were the center of the universe instead of an insignificant part of it? I think that would be more frightening. Limitation is the most frightening thing I can think of, so then I think how consciousness is so strange, at least we are conscious. Looking out into the endless vastness of space is somehow reassuring, diminishing all suffering just a little bit, so I think what is my relationship to the vastness but depression means pain until it heals day by day and to be conscious becomes less of a burden and one is back to being interested again!

Cathy said...

One little aside, though: Since we know the Universe is expanding, it must've all been in ONE PLACE at one time, yes?? I admire your knowledge of this star and it's progeny, our galaxy, and in particular on our 40th Earth Day, I wish you joy on this our only home.

Liz said...

The creator is probably looking on the bright side; the expansion of the universe is accelerating faster than our ability to understand it.
So we will have an ever-decreasing chance of wrecking his construction.

salemslot9 said...

happy earth day

Beth said...

I think a lot of people are afraid of new things because it challenges their belief system. The example that springs immediately to mind is that I believe they will eventually find a gene that codes for homosexuality. (I don't think it's entirely nature, and there may be some nurture in there, too, but I do think there is a genetic predisposition.) If that happens, it will tell all those that hate gays that they've been wrong, deluded, and duped for years. That can really mess with a person.

Love, Beth

Ken Riches said...

Great post for Earth day. I hold out hope for our scientists and engineers that they will continue to pull rabbits out of their hats and save us from our own repeated stupidity.