From Myths to Science: Understanding the Evolution of the Universe and Human Thought


The journey from ancient myths to modern science reveals a fascinating story about the universe, human curiosity, and the persistent quest for knowledge. This article explores key ideas surrounding the origins of the cosmos, the evolution of scientific thought, and the complex relationship between science, religion, and human identity.

The Universe: From a Single Moment to Expanding Cosmos

Approximately 13.8 billion years ago, the universe began. This moment, known through modern cosmology as the Big Bang, marked the birth of both time and space. Before this event, scientists acknowledge there is no known record or understanding of what existed - if anything existed at all.

In the initial fraction of a second after the Big Bang, the universe was a dense, hot “soup” of particles and antiparticles engaged in a dynamic balance. Particles annihilated antiparticles and vice versa, with new pairs continuously forming and disappearing. Over time, a slight imbalance allowed matter to dominate, enabling the formation of atoms, stars, and galaxies.

The universe continues to expand rapidly - so fast that within just ten seconds after its birth, its spread reached billions of light-years. Stars, some enormous and short-lived, exploded in spectacular supernovae, scattering elements across space, seeding the creation of solar systems like our own.

The Human Brain and the Origin of Questioning

Life on Earth is estimated to have begun around one billion years ago. Over vast periods, living forms evolved and adapted, gradually developing complex brains. Humans, in particular, possess brains with an extraordinary number of neurons - around 100 billion - that enable advanced thinking and questioning.

One of the most profound human traits is the ability to ask questions: Why are we here? How did everything begin? When did humans start questioning the world? While animals may react to their environment, systematic questioning and seeking answers seem uniquely human.

This relentless inquiry has driven civilizations to develop conceptual models - myths, religions, and eventually scientific explanations - to understand existence, life, and death.

The Concept of Soul and Death: Science Meets Spirituality

Historically, humanity has grappled with the ideas of soul, spirit, and what happens after death. Many cultures conceived the soul as an essence within, animating life. When this essence leaves, life ends.

Science, however, approaches these questions differently. Research shows that life depends on cells, DNA, and biological processes. Death occurs when vital functions like heartbeat or brain activity cease, but the definitions can be complex. Brain death, coma, and cellular decay all present varying stages of "life" and "death," complicating a clear boundary.

Despite thorough searches, science has not found empirical evidence for a soul or spirit as distinct entities. Yet, this has not stopped humans from developing spiritual beliefs and religions to explain and find meaning in these mysteries.

Why Do Humans Need Religion?

Religion has been central to human societies for two primary reasons: providing a shared identity and explaining the unknown.

Religions offer conceptual frameworks that helped early humans make sense of the cosmos, life, and social order. These beliefs became intertwined with cultural identity, uniting groups but also distinguishing them from others.

Over time, different religions and sects arose, each with unique narratives and rituals. These systems answered fundamental questions about creation, morality, life after death, and community belonging.

While science challenges many religious explanations, especially mythological cosmologies, the human need for belonging and meaning sustains religious practices worldwide.

The Duality of Science and Belief in Everyday Life

In daily life, people often navigate between rational scientific understanding and emotional or cultural beliefs. For instance, while deciding practical matters like guest lists for a wedding, science plays little role; instead, religious customs and rituals dominate.

Similarly, individuals appreciate music, poetry, and art without needing scientific reasons - these preferences stem from emotional and irrational aspects of human experience.

This coexistence of scientific rationality and faith-based beliefs often appears contradictory but remains peaceful and natural to many people.

Scientific Temperament: A Method of Inquiry

The scientific temperament involves rigorous questioning and skepticism. One early definition advised that whenever a claim is made - whether one’s own or someone else’s - it must be critically examined and challenged. Only after surviving all attacks and scrutiny should it be accepted as true.

This method contrasts with accepting traditional or religious claims without question. Historically, scientists who challenged prevailing beliefs - like those disputing celestial myths or the flat earth - faced resistance or persecution.

Historical Challenges to Scientific Ideas

Throughout history, pioneering thinkers who advanced scientific knowledge often met opposition. Ancient astronomers who argued that celestial bodies like Rahu and Ketu (mythological shadow planets) were not real entities disrupted religiously driven astrology businesses.

Similarly, the idea of Earth revolving around the sun challenged entrenched beliefs, resulting in hardships for proponents.

This struggle between scientific progress and societal resistance persists in various forms today.

Bridging Science and Culture: The Modern Dilemma

The relationship between science and religion is complex, especially in public and educational spaces. For example, some scientific institutions integrate religious symbolism or practices, which may exclude or alienate those of differing faiths.

Similarly, schools sometimes mandate religious or cultural rituals alongside science education, creating conflicts for students and teachers.

A critical balance is needed - promoting scientific understanding while respecting cultural diversity, without letting belief systems undermine rational inquiry.

Encouraging Scientific Awareness

Spreading scientific awareness is vital, especially through education. Encouraging children to question, explore, and think critically equips them to navigate the world.

Yet, societal pressures sometimes inhibit free inquiry - parents may discourage questioning traditions, or social norms may restrict choices like marriage.

Recognizing these tensions, it is important to foster environments where scientific temperament and cultural identities coexist, allowing individuals freedom and respect.

The Power of Uncertainty: Embracing the Unknown

Science advances by embracing uncertainty and continually questioning. Ancient texts like the Rigveda's Nasadiya Sukta poetically acknowledge the mystery of creation, admitting that even divine beings may not know how the universe began.

This humility and openness to doubt drive scientific progress, encouraging exploration beyond myths and assumptions.

Conclusion: A Continuous Journey of Discovery

The story of the universe and humanity is one of wonder, inquiry, and evolving understanding. From myths explaining the cosmos to science unraveling its secrets, the journey continues.

Balancing scientific knowledge with cultural and spiritual beliefs remains a challenge but also enriches human experience.

Encouraging curiosity, respect for evidence, and thoughtful dialogue is key to advancing our collective awareness and appreciation of the cosmos and our place within it.

C. P. Kumar
Energy Healer & Blogger

Amazon Books by C. P. Kumar: https://amazon.com/author/cpkumar/
YouTube Channel of C. P. Kumar: https://www.youtube.com/@cpkumar2022
Spiritual and Social Books by C. P. Kumar: http://cpkumar.lovestoblog.com/bookmarks.html

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