How big is the universe? Does intelligent extraterrestrial life exist somewhere in the universe? If so, how much extraterrestrial intelligent life (ETI) might there be? And if it is there, is it moral? Would they have a religion? And what would their existence say about human religions, theology, and beliefs?
In short, is the existence of ETI incompatible with the belief in God, with certain religions and their theologies?
These are the questions that Pearce (a philosopher) and Adair (a scientist who has worked on SETI - the search for ETI) seek to answer in this book. They take a close aim at Christian theology, focusing on previous claims of prominent astrotheologians who claim that there are no considerable problems that ETI existence causes for their belief systems. Pearce and Adair, however, show in this wide-ranging book (that touches on science, philosophy, psychology, and theology) that Christian (and other religious) belief is indeed threatened by the existence of ETI.
Would aliens be fallen creatures, requiring salvation through atonement and the resulting incarnation of God? Would one Jesus suffice, or would the universe require trillions of Jesuses, many existing simultaneously? This, and many other such questions are discussed in this engaging book that adds to the growing discipline of astrotheology (and perhaps astro-atheology).
"This well-written and provocative book is a substantial contribution to studies of the societal impact of
astrobiology, and especially to the new field of astrotheology."
- Steven J. Dick, former NASA Chief Historian, author of Astrobiology, Discovery, and Societal Impact
I love definitive treatments of a subject. This is a definitive treatment of its subject. The impact and significance to religion of even the possibility of alien civilizations is much in need of a thorough look. Pearce and Adair cover every angle, and well.
- Richard Carrier, Ph.D., author of Jesus Christ from Outer Space
"The breadth and depth of knowledge in Aliens and Religion are truly impressive..."
- David E. Pritchard, Physics Professor of Physics, MIT, and editor of Alien Discussions
"An invaluable and highly entertaining resource for science fiction writers and readers alike, for both believers and
skeptics, and anyone who enjoys wrestling with high-end thought experiments."
- David Fitzgerald, author of The Complete Heretic's Guide to Western Religion Series
"This is an impressive work! It's an ingenious attempt to reach believers who are otherwise impervious to reason,
which has a good chance of succeeding. Bravo!"
- John Loftus, author of God and Horrendous Suffering and The Case Against Miracles
"...thoughtful, erudite, and deep dive... Highly recommended for anyone who has ever found themselves
wondering about the possibilities hidden among the stars, and about what might happen if those possibilities
came to Earth."
- Eric Vanden Eykel, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Forrest S. Williams Teaching Chair in
Humanities, Ferrum College
