Cosmology isn't a word that falls off the lips of most individuals even annually. Let's define cosmology as astrophysical study of the history, structure, and constituent dynamics of the universe. But then we have plasma cosmology, and more recently quantum cosmology. Who can keep up with this world anyway? We ALL need to!
In theoretical physics, quantum cosmology is a fairly new field which attempts to study the effect of quantum mechanics (another new venture) on the creation of the universe, or its early evolution.
Was there a Big Bang? How dow e know that and what's the implications of such? If we know how the universe began, will that give us a clue as to how it might end- or not? Like, does the Milky Way traverse the inner sanctum of our universe every 26,000 years? And, are we headed to a December 21, 20012 date with that event wherein we cross what's known as the galatic plane that portends BIG TROUBLE for we Earth beings?
Cosmogony or cosmogonies is any theory concerning the coming into existence or origin of the universe, or an origin belief about how reality came to be- like we know for sure right! The word comes from the Greek cosmos, meaning world. In the specialized context of space science and astronomy, the term refers to theories of creation of (and study of) the Solar System.
Cosmogony is distinguished from cosmology, which studies the universe at large and throughout its existence, and which technically does not inquire directly into the source of its origins. I mean like who's splitting hairs here on such a vast endeavor. I think the Mayans had a better handle on the cosmos than we do today.
Attempts to create a naturalistic cosmogony are subject to two separate limitations. One is based in the philosophy of science and the epistemological constraints of science itself, especially with regards to whether scientific inquiry can ask questions of "why" the universe exists. Another more pragmatic problem is that there is no physical model which can explain the earliest moments of the universe's existence (Planck time) because of a lack of a consistent theory of quantum gravity.
For me, Bernard Haisch seems have the better grip on quantum gravity, and when combined with his esoteric ingredient in the equation of HOW and WHY life began. As he wrote, "The physical constants that permit the evolution of lfie, the deep connection between properties of matter and an underlying sea of quantum energy, the zero-point field, which recalls the role light played in the creation process of metaphysical cosmogonies tells me that there is a Consciousness that's brought us all here."
Indeed, but now what? :-)
ernie@lrchouston.com
