Chasing Leviathan Podcast: Discussion with Dr. Mary Jane Rubenstein

Introduction

• Host: PJ Weary
• Guest: Dr. Mary Jane Rubenstein, scholar of religion, philosophy, science studies, and gender studies at Wesleyan University.
• Topic: Discussion about Dr. Rubenstein's book, "Astrotopia."

Background of Dr. Rubenstein's Work

• Focus on where religion appears unexpectedly, e.g., secular philosophies and theoretical physics.
• Exploration of multiverse concepts, revealing theological undertones in theoretical physics.

Origin of "Astrotopia"

• Inspired by a conversation about a Japanese fashion designer, Yusuke Maezawa, buying seats on Elon Musk's BFR for artists to inspire world peace.
• Explores how space represents human redemption and visionary futures.

Intersection of Physics and Pop Culture

• Hardcore physicists and their popular books translate scientific ideas into public mythology.
• Dr. Rubenstein argues that scientific calculations and motivations are also based on stories and assumptions.
• Examples: Elon Musk’s ventures, influence of science fiction on technological developments like brain chips.

Use of Mythology and Religion

• Mythology: Orienting stories about origins, identity, and destiny.
• Religion: Social phenomena involving myths and rituals.
• Examples of religious elements in space exploration: Apollo program's use of Genesis during lunar orbit.

Concerns About the Space Race

• Comparison of modern space exploration with historical colonialism.
• Use of religious and mythological rhetoric to justify space conquest.
• Concerns over the implications of corporate-driven space endeavors.

Societal and Cultural Influences

• Historical influence of doctrines like Manifest Destiny on space race narratives.
• Private space corporations (e.g., SpaceX) using modern mythologies and charismatic leadership to drive interest.
• The rhetoric of space exploration is heavily influenced by cultural myths, often compared to biblical narratives.

Space vs. Ocean Exploration

• Different cultural perceptions: space as transcendence, the ocean as chaos.
• Exploration of outer space is more thrilling due to its association with transcendence and otherworldliness.

Dangers of Contemporary Space Efforts

• Risks of repeating colonial mistakes in space.
• The possibility of disturbing non-Western cosmological views.
• Potential loss of scientific and aesthetic value of celestial bodies.
• Political and ethical implications of treating space as a new frontier for exploitation.

Reframing Space Exploration

• Proposal to use pantheism as a framework to value all creation as divine.
• Encouragement to rethink the exploitation of space resources with respect to their intrinsic value.

Influences of Pantheism

• Spinoza as a foundational thinker in pantheism.
• Mentioned thinkers: Albert Einstein, James Lovelock, Lynn Margulis, and science fiction authors like N.K. Jemisin.

Conclusion

• Dr. Rubenstein emphasizes the potential of alternative narratives and stories to guide space exploration ethically.
• The importance of considering diverse stories and perspectives in shaping future endeavors.