623 - The gravity of our situation — from the state of science to the state of our universe

As the popularized phrase goes, sometimes we tend to be 'blinded by science' and draw conclusions that do not concur with scientific principles, or that at least, do not consider the very real risks and consequences of already known scientific principles.

This may be the case concerning optimistic projections concerning proposed space ventures predicted to be underway by the mid-2020s. Two proposals immediately come to mind: the earth-orbiting Von Braun Space Station and planned manned voyages to the planet Mars.

Upon closer examination, it would not be unreasonable to conclude that perhaps we have not considered the gravity of these proposals as they may affect those who would consider such opportunities to venture into space. Indeed, the nature of gravity itself could become one of mankind’s major obstacles concerning fulfilling any dreams of venturing into space.

Gravity is a phenomenon little understood, even though it is a ‘force’ perpetually experienced by all living creatures who inhabit planet Earth. From the direct effects on the human body when not subjected to earth’s full gravitational field, to the very nature of gravity’s role within the structure of the universe, a closer look the gravity of our situation certainly appears to be in order. Sadly, the ‘gravity of our situation’ may be better applied to the current discipline of science itself.

For example, take a closer look at what has been called the “big bang theory” – a theory popularly shared by most scientists and the public alike to explain the ‘origins of the universe.’

Having done so ourselves, it’s difficult to avoid the conclusion that this is yet another theory that demonstrates how so much of what we think we know “just ain’t so.”

On the other hand, the once accepted view of a “steady state universe” (which makes no attempt to explain the ‘origins’ of the universe) demonstrates how so much of what has been rejected by modern theorists actually “is so.”

Before mankind ventures into space, we had best be assured that the knowledge at our disposal is Just Right, or else the gravity of our situation may overwhelm us in ways that extend far beyond the field of gravity itself.