Why life is more than an accident

THE letter from Fr Con McGillicuddy (September 17) generated some sharp criticism — yet the basic principle he enunciated is entirely correct.

This anthropic principle — the fact that the universe and in particular our galaxy, sun and planet appear to be designed with life in mind — is acknowledged by most scientists, however they explain this finding.

Many ‘coincidences’ were necessary to create exactly the right parameters for the emergence of life.

The book Rare Earth by the secular writers Peter D Ward, paleontologist, and Donald Brownlee, astrobiologist, documented many of these, as did the Christian astrophysicist, Dr Hugh Ross.

The following are just a few examples. If the force of gravity in the universe were stronger, stars would be larger and would burn up too rapidly to support life.

However, if the gravitational force were just slightly weaker, the elements required for the building of planets or life would not exist.

If the expansion rate of the universe were less, it would have recollapsed before any sun-like stars stabilised. If it were faster, galaxies would be unable to condense from the expansion.

If the distance between stars in our galaxy were less, the gravitational interaction would interfere with planetary orbits, creating temperature extremes unsuited for life.

If it were larger, the debris generated by supernovae would be too thinly distributed to allow for the creation of planets like the earth. Regarding the earth itself, if it were located further from the sun it would be too cool for a stable water cycle.

If it were closer to the sun, it would be too warm for a stable water cycle.

If the surface gravity on our planet were stronger, the atmosphere would contain too much ammonia and methane.

If it were weaker, too much water would be lost.

If the crust were thicker, too much oxygen would be absorbed from the atmosphere.

If it were thinner, the volcanic and tectonic activity would be too great.

If the ozone level were greater, surface temperatures would be too low. If it were less, surface temperatures would be too high.

If the oxygen level were greater, plants and hydrocarbons would burn up too easily.

If it were less, animals would be unable to breathe.

There are dozens of other factors not listed here which coincided to create just-right conditions for life.

Dr Ross estimates that the odds on them doing so by chance alone are so great as to be well nigh impossible.

But some, wishing to exclude that which they think impossible, a divine creator, will believe whatever remains, no matter how absurdly improbable.

Michael O’Driscoll

154 Blackrock Road

Cork