Torch, Fall/Winter 2009

16 TORCH | Fall–Winter 2009 observable or measurable data to propose rational mechanisms for creating universes. In addition, life as we know it could not exist if physical parameters such as gravity, electricity, and nuclear forces differed slightly. Our fine-tuned universe is a statistical improbability as viewed from naturalism. On the other hand, a temporary universe uniquely suited for the existence of life aligns with transcendentalism. Yet, to achieve this comfort, many transcendentalists allude to a universal consciousness that guides the development of the universe from its very beginning. Although at first this may sound like a creationist proposition, the Creation account found in Genesis differs in that the universe was created functionally complete. This implies a complexity in the relationship between space, time, and matter that is yet to be understood, contrary to naturalistic theories that start with relatively simple conditions. Although the creationist position is often denigrated as being a statement of faith, the current Big Bang cosmology proposes a universe composed of four percent ordinary matter and 96 percent “otherness,” which is also a statement of faith. Life Issues Although centuries of scientific scrutiny have validated the assertion “life comes from life,” Darwin proposed that the first life came from “some warm little pond.” To him, cells were little more than simple bags of protoplasm. But five years after the publication of On the Origin of Species , Louis Pasteur stated that his experiments related to germ theory dealt a “mortal blow” to the doctrine of spontaneous generation (life spawning from non-life). Since then, the study of cells has not made Darwin’s proposal more plausible but has enhanced appreciation for the complex structures and regulatory mechanisms inherent in even the simplest cells. It may seem that “life comes from life” supports transcendentalism, but this worldview appeals to a life principle inherent to the universe. Therefore, transcendentalism is even more accommodating to spontaneous Make plans now to sail away with Royal Caribbean on the Grandeur of the Seas, February 11–15, 2010! Join alumni and friends for a four-night cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. Relax! Rooms start at only $479 per person! Final Registration: $200 deposits* received by December 12, 2009 *Deposit is $200 per cabin and fully refundable through December 12, 2009. 1-800-837-2566 www.cedarville.edu/alumni Bon Voyage! Join the Friends for Life Cruise on February 11-15, 2010. VLADIMIR PISKUNOV / ISTOCKPHOTO