Exploring Ethics in Space Exploration

Oct 13, 2024

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.