Why the Universe Needs an Explanation

Questions about the universe's origin and dependence are philosophical and theological as well as scientific. A scientific account of an early physical state does not automatically answer why there is a world at all. State premises clearly rather than treating an unanswered question as proof.

Suppose a student explains rain by describing water vapour, clouds and cooling. That is a useful scientific answer to 'How does rain fall?' Now ask a different question: why is there a universe in which water and physical laws exist? This second question is about the existence of the whole dependent system. These questions should not be treated as enemies. Allah creates rainfall, and science studies the processes we can measure. Classical theologians ask whether things that depend on other things can finally explain their own existence. To give a serious answer, write the argument step by step. Which things are dependent? Why might their existence call for an explanation? Why would an independent Creator be different from a created object? Some people will challenge one of these steps. An argument becomes stronger when you show how the conclusion follows, rather than saying, 'Scientists do not know, so my belief is proved.'