If the quantity of matter within the currently expanding universe is beneath a certain threshold, the universe will continue expanding forever. Just as we cannot place ourselves within a central location of position within the universe, we cannot place ourselves within a central location of time. This means that an expanding universe that has no end also has no beginning. As such, the universe has no creator. This does not mean that neither a God, nor a multitude of Gods, exists. It means that the universe has always existed along with the God, or multitude of Gods.
Most scientifically inclined persons accept quantum mechanics as the basis for the organization of all matter within the universe. But the sum is more than the addition of its parts. From physics to chemistry to biology comes the emergence of life. What we have is the Principle of Organization of Matter. Matter has the capability to organize itself such that life emerges. How does the emergence of life from the principles of quantum mechanics contribute to the remnants of once living things after death?
A study of comparative religion indicates that all religions follow the progression from polytheism to monolatry and end as monotheism. But what if the polytheism fails to take hold of a people? In such an instance what would have become the gods of polytheism never achieve the status of immortal beings but exist only as spirits. Those spirits are merely the remnants of once living things. Can such remnants exist?
One often hears aspersions directed against organized religion. As if organized religion were the cause of most societal ills. Those who adhere to such credence see as the remedy to organized religion an unregulated faith in whatever one chooses to accept. Is this the most appropriate course of action to take?
