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Twentieth Annual Darwin College Lecture Series 2005

CONFLICT

Lecture 8   :   11 March

LIFE IN A VIOLENT UNIVERSE

Paul Davies

Biography  |   Abstract   |   Printable Version

Abstract

Violence is the leitmotif of the universe. It was born in a big bang. Its fundamental structure was forged in a searing maelstrom of unimaginable ferocity, at temperatures exceeding a trillion degrees. Its history is one of cataclysmic explosions, implosions and collisions of literally astronomical proportions. Yet amid this cosmic mayhem, life has not only emerged, but flourished. How has something so delicate and elaborate as life made a home amid the chaos of a violent universe? I shall examine three threats to life of increasing severity - the impact of comets and asteroids, the explosion of stars, and the big bang itself - and argue that each has a creative as well as a destructive aspect in the story of life. Indeed, it seems to some as if the universe is unreasonably bio-friendly.

The lectures are given at 5.30 p.m. in The Lady Mitchell Hall, Sidgwick Avenue, with an adjacent overflow theatre with live TV coverage. Each lecture is typically attended by 600 people so you must arrive early to ensure a place.