Why Do We Exist? Why Is There a Universe?

Science & Spirit Magazine Investigates

QUINCY, MA -- 01/11/2005 -- Modern cosmology has arrived, but has not yet answered all the big questions. The January-February issue of Science & Spirit features cosmologist George Ellis and his quest for answers to the richest philosophical and metaphysical questions of all -- “Why do we exist?” and “Why is there a universe?”

Ellis believes in what he calls capital-C “Cosmology,” which includes all of little-c cosmology, “but adds to it the dimension of how this all relates to human life in its fullest sense.” A leader in his field, as well as an advocate for change in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid, Ellis has always combined his success with a spirit of giving -- donating millions of dollars and countless hours to South African development projects.

Also explored in this issue are the effects of toxins on the fetus. Science writer Karen Schmidt recounts a National Academy of Sciences report that states: “Scientists believe that environmental factors play a role in at least three percent and as much as twenty-five percent of all developmental defects in children.” Taking advantage of recent advances in biomonitoring technology, scientists are discovering that “we all harbor a cocktail of chemicals in our bodies, some of which were banned long ago.” Scientists also know that unborn children are most sensitive to chemical pollution and are the first place to look for signs of trouble.

The January-February issue of Science & Spirit also features:

-- Cambridge University cosmologist John Barrow examining “string theory” and suggesting the constants of nature may not be so constant after all.
-- A Q & A with Kitty Ferguson, an established explorer of the interplay between science and religion and biographer of famed physicist Stephen Hawking.
-- A report on cochlear implants and the controversy they have sparked between the deaf and hearing communities.
-- A wife recounting her husband’s devastating motorcycle crash and subsequent struggle to heal from his traumatic brain injury.

Science & Spirit explores the ways in which science affects the human spirit. It is published six times a year by Heldref Publications and is sold on newsstands and by subscription. It can be viewed online at www.science-spirit.org.
For additional information about the people and stories featured in Science & Spirit, please contact Laura Mackin, tel: 617-847-5801; email: mackin@science-spirit.org.

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