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About this quote

What does it mean?
Order in the universe can be called God, but it lacks personality.
In plain terms
The laws of physics are like an impersonal God.
What can you take from it?
Science describes order without needing a personal deity.

Where it applies

  • philosophical debate
  • faith discussions
  • education

Putting it to work

  • study laws of nature
  • reflect on order

Questions to consider

  • Can order be divine?
  • Do laws need a lawgiver?

Another view

Many people find personal connection in religion.

More from Stephen Hawking

  1. To confine our attention to terrestrial matters would be to limit the human spirit.

    Permalink to quote #55
  2. We shouldn't be surprised that conditions in the universe are suitable for life, but this is not evidence that the universe was designed to allow for life.

    Permalink to quote #57
  3. There are grounds for cautious optimism that we may now be near the end of the search for the ultimate laws of nature.

    Permalink to quote #54

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