the universe

A philosopher cannot help but be philosophical at a time like this. But at the same time, it’s never been more difficult to be philosophical, for philosophers and non-philosophers alike!…

Less than a generation ago, astronomers discovered that the universe is expanding at an ever-accelerating rate. “Something is pouring energy into the universe,” they said, “causing it to accelerate.” They…

The man-made ecological crisis includes climate change, oceanic pollution and depletion, and the “Sixth Extinction” of animals and plants, among other devastations. This crisis defines our age, and threatens to…

Our times require the reexamination of first principles. Clinging to the premises of John Locke, for example, which formed the basis of the oldest democracy, the United States, simply won’t…

Some cynical philosopher stenciled a few words in the center of the park road. They read: “Nature is wrong.” The words are fading away, which brings a smile. Nature will…

It’s been a number of weeks since I’ve been to the canyon beyond town. Driving the last two miles of gravel road and parking near the gate yesterday afternoon, my…

Philosophy needs to break science’s taboo against any form of teleology, which broadly speaking is the study of evidences of intent and design in nature.

Even with the late rains this year, the mountain reservoir is surprisingly full, fuller than I’ve ever seen it. Public access down at the lake is closed today, so we…