Skip to content

So long as the universe had a beginning, we could suppose…

“So long as the universe had a beginning, we could suppose it had a creator. But if the universe is really completely self-contained, having no boundary or edge, it would have neither beginning nor end: it would simply be. What place, then, for a creator?” quote by Stephen Hawking
Download Open image
“So long as the universe had a beginning, we could suppose it had a creator. But if the universe is really completely self-contained, having no boundary or edge, it would have neither beginning nor end: it would simply be. What place, then, for a creator?”

Stephen Hawking

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

If the universe is self‑contained without boundaries, the concept of a creator becomes unnecessary.

In simple terms: A self‑contained universe may not need a creator.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about origins.

Themes

philosophy cosmology theology existence science

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive skeptical

Type

philosophical scientific

When to use this quote

  • scientific inquiry
  • philosophical debate
  • theological discussion

Key Concepts

finite vs infinite universe causality metaphysics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is a creator needed to explain existence?
  • How does a boundary‑less universe affect belief?
A Different Perspective

Science may not address metaphysical questions.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Stephen Hawking

Explore all 601 Stephen Hawking quotes

More Beginning quotes

Browse all 3,566 Beginning quotes