Coconote
AI notes
AI voice & video notes
Export note
Try for free
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.
📄
Full transcript