Belief Quote by Quentin Smith
“According to theism, if a universe is to have any probability of existing, this probability is dependent upon God's beliefs, desires and creative acts. But the Hartle-Hawking probability is not dependent on any supernatural considerations; Hartle and Hawking do not sum over anything supernatural in their path integral derivation of the probability amplitude.”
About This Quote
Source Paper: Theism and Cosmology, 1995
The quote argues that scientific cosmological models can be independent of theological assumptions, contrasting theological probability with the Hartle‑Hawking model which relies solely on physics.
In simple terms: Science can explain the universe without invoking God.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that some theories are non‑theistic.
Themes
theology
science
cosmology
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
analytical
academic
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- philosophical discussion
- teaching cosmology
Key Concepts
probability
path integral
naturalism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do scientific explanations exclude all religious meaning?
- How do we reconcile faith with non‑theistic physics?
A Different Perspective
Scientific models may not address metaphysical questions.
![“So how do theists respond to arguments like this? [The Argument from Evil] They say there is a reason for evil, but it is a mystery. Well, let me tell you this: I'm actually one hundred feet tall even though I only appear to be six feet tall. You ask me for proof of this. I have a simple answer…” quote by Quentin Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/635/quentin-smith-54821_accepting_so-how-do-theists-respond-to-arguments-l_1707372.jpg)
![“[This world] exists nonnecessarily, improbably, and causelessly. It exists for absolutely no reason at all. It is inexplicably and stunningly actual . . . The impact of this captivated realisation upon me is overwhelming. I am completely stunned. I take a few dazed steps in the dark meadow, and…” quote by Quentin Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/55e/quentin-smith-54821_captivated_this-world-exists-nonnecessarily-improba_1826542.jpg)
