A Fortunate Universe : Life in a Finely Tuned Cosmos

A discussion, defence and critique of the various arguments around what fine-tuning might mean for the search for the ultimate laws of nature. The authors' engaging and witty style addresses conflicting notions from science and religion to discuss the origins of the Universe, and our place in it.

Over the last forty years, scientists have uncovered evidence that if the Universe had been forged with even slightly different properties, life as we know it - and life as we can imagine it - would be impossible. Join us on a journey through how we understand the Universe, from its most basic particles and forces, to planets, stars and galaxies, and back through cosmic history to the birth of the cosmos. Conflicting notions about our place in the Universe are defined, defended and critiqued from scientific, philosophical and religious viewpoints. The authors'' engaging and witty style addresses what fine-tuning might mean for the future of physics and the search for the ultimate laws of nature. Tackling difficult questions and providing thought-provoking answers, this volumes challenges us to consider our place in the cosmos, regardless of our initial convictions.