Andrew Davis writes Metaphysics of Exo-Life to provoke conversations “on a small planet circling around a small sun… and also occurring (in some fashion) on other worlds by the light of other suns.” His startling statement draws the reader toward a new conceptualization of a fascinating theological subject and may prepare us for the inevitable shockwave when life beyond earth is discovered.
Davis, Program Director for the Center for Process Studies, bases his work on the proposals put forward by Steven Dick for “cosmotheology.” The work of this historian sets forth basic principles to guide our beliefs as we move toward a First Contact. For Dick, such core ideas reject any anthropocentrism in such a vast universe, as well as any supernaturalism in the functions of the universe. Yet for Davis, these thought-provoking principles are too limiting by failing to utilize the powerful philosophy of A.N. Whitehead. New formulations based on Whitehead’s metaphysics offer a foundation for cosmological affirmations that carry the initial cosmotheistic ideas to a new level.
In the core of the book Davis challenges each of Dick’s principles with the insights of Process thought. For example, the first principle states, “Humanity is not physically central to the universe.” Undoubtedly, the knowledge gained in the past 400 years supports this assertion. However, Process thought adds an essential element to recast this. Davis proposes, “Humanity exemplifies metaphysical principles that are utterly central to the universe.” By understanding human experience as an outcome of natural processes we are connecting to the metaphysical continuity pervading the entire cosmos. There is an essential link with humanity’s journey and what might be occurring in worlds yet discovered.
Davis continues this examination and enrichment with each of the other principles put forth by Dick. His proposal for the final principle leads to extraordinary new directions. He states, “Cosmotheology must embrace human destiny as inextricably linked to the destiny of the cosmos as an infinite evolutionary expression of the metaphysical conditions chiefly exemplified in the divine.”
Of great value to the person who is just entering this discussion, the author presents a detailed history of how Process theologians have engaged in the discussion of life beyond Earth. The overview of many leading writers in the field provides a helpful primer on the depth of this discussion. The intriguing work across several disciplines is summarized by several themes Davis finds which link process theology to the core of this vital work. Elements such as, “Mind and mental activity are inherently part of nature,” and “What has occurred on this planet can (and likely will) occur on other planets when conditions are ripe.” His themes will no doubt spur larger and fruitful discussions.

Many people sense that our explorations of the universe will find evidence of life beyond our planet. Christian theology must be cast larger, integrating with science and philosophy for principles which guide us to meet the development. Traditional theology is not sufficient. This work will advance the construction of a metaphysical framework for that day.
(I received a copy of the book for review. Thank you to www.speakeasy.com)
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