Stephen Hawking, the renowned physicist, offered a straightforward answer when asked about his religious beliefs. In his book Brief Answers to the Big Questions, Hawking wrote, “The simplest explanation is there is no God. No one created the universe and no one directs our fate.” He expressed that the laws of nature could explain everything, dismissing the need for divine intervention. For Hawking, the lack of evidence for an afterlife further solidified his view that humans should focus on appreciating the universe during their single lifetime.
Hawking, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 76, had long been open about his scientific perspective, blending complex theories on general relativity and quantum mechanics with accessible explanations for the public. Despite his disability from ALS, which left him wheelchair-bound for much of his life, he continued to challenge humanity’s understanding of existence.
His views on religion stood in contrast to those who intertwine spiritual beliefs with science. While acknowledging others’ rights to their beliefs, Hawking maintained that science’s reliance on evidence was incompatible with faith-based systems. He often commented on how his own disability was historically seen as divine punishment, emphasizing instead the role of natural laws in shaping life.
Hawking’s life and work remain a testament to intellectual curiosity and resilience. Through his groundbreaking theories and candid discussions about humanity’s place in the cosmos, he inspired countless individuals to explore the mysteries of the universe with both wonder and critical inquiry.
