A chara, – Perhaps it is not surprising that Frank Columb does not find the Big Bang theory of the origins of the universe to his taste (Letters, April 4th). It was, after all, first postulated by a priest, Msgr Georges Henri Lemaitre, and is too close to the “let there be light” of Genesis for the comfort of some.
But the theory is backed up by sound scientific evidence, whereas what Mr Columb suggests instead, a “multiverse” of different universes “constantly evolving and disintegrating” in a void that is “indestructible and unchangeable” has not a scintilla of observable data to lend credence to it as a theory, as I’m sure he is aware. As such it is philosophical speculation, and owes more to a desperate attempt to come up with a plausible alternative to the idea that the universe was created than to actual science. It is, I’m afraid, a cosmological straying into the field of theology by way of the path of denial.
Mr Columb and I would agree on one thing, however: that the Big Bang took place in utter silence. There is no sound in the vacuum of space. But I am not surprised at this silence for another reason: in 1 Kings 12. 11-12, the prophet Elijah found that God is not in the mighty wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire, but in the silence. Is mise,
REVD PATRICK G BURKE,
Castlecomer,
Co Kilkenny
Sir, – “If he (God) is eternal and the universe had a beginning, the question presents itself: before creation how did he occupy himself?“ (April 4th). Loading his Big Starting Pistol? Yours, etc,
D FLINTER,
Castleview Estate,
Headford,
Co Galway
Sir, – I can hear even now the almost soundless tapping of computer keys by theologians, philosophers and astronomers. William Reville and Frank McNally are sure to enter the fray. Exciting times ahead, I hope, on the Irish Times letters page. Yours, etc,
CAOIMHÍN de BHAILÍS
Roman Street,
Cork