The Nature of the Universe: Finite, Infinite, or Indeterminate? Newton vs. Bentley Newton: It is perfectly consistent with Gods nature to create a universe that is finite, or infinite, or of an indeterminate size. Both Mr. Bentley and I are firm believers in God, and we are both members of the clergy. However, whereas Mr. Bentley believes that the universe is of an infinite size, I believe that we cannot know. It shall be forever beyond our comprehension. However, I would contend that more evidence exists for a finite universe. As I said in my letter to Mr. Bentley, if matter were evenly dispersed throughout an infinite space, how would it coalesce into one mass? (Danielson 227) Indeed, such a notion is absurd. However, if matter were to have gravitational attraction between it, and space were finite, then it makes perfect sense. It would be the inevitable consequence of the laws of nature for matter to coalesce (Danielson 227). However, on another note, I believe that a cause, very wise in geometry and mechanics, is likely responsible for the nature of the universe (Danielson 228). This cause would rightly deserve the name God, and I believe it in Gods power to create an infinite universe, should He see fit to do so. However, as a scientific question, I do not think it possible for us to know whether or not the universe is finite or infinite. Therefore, I conclude that the universe is of indeterminate size. Bentley: I would like to thank Sir Isaac for his presence in this debate. He was very helpful to me in the preparation of my Boyle Lecture, A Confutation of Atheism from the Origin and Frame of the World. Newtonian mechanics strongly suggest the existence of God, and for all his help, I thank him. But he has accidentally misrepresented his own position! If he is correct, than the materialists must be correct. For in order for Gods creation to work in the way it does, the universe must logically be infinite. We must admit an infinite vacuum, or all bodies would have an equal proportion of matter (Danielson 229). This we know, a priori, to be false. All bodies clearly do not have an equal proportion of matter. Our Moon clearly has less matter than the Earth, on which we now stand. The same is true in our universe. Sir Isaac Newton does not know how any large bodies would have come together, if the universe were infinite. However, I dispute this claim. I claim, unlike many, that God Himself orchestrated the coalescing of matter in an infinite universe (Danielson 230). To me, it is perfectly congruent with Gods omnipotent nature to create an infinite universe, then set up a system by which the universe could create itself. While He did not directly intervene, He did so through a secondary cause[footnoteRef:1], namely, designing the process by which it would happen. I would like to close by saying that we must not confine God to making a universe solely for us (Danielson 231). Who can deny that there are stars beyond the reach of even our most advanced telescopes? (Danielson 232) For as the Psalmist said, the Heavens declare the Glory of God. [1: Sometimes referred to as a natural cause. ]

Newton: Richard Bentley, you have certainly given an impressive rebuttal of my points. I agree with your theological points, but I believe you are arguing too much from what you think God can do. We cannot yet know if there are stars beyond our most advanced telescopes. This is not a particularly falsifiable question, and so it is barely (if at all) within the realm of science. Indeed, based on the evidence I have presented, the universe may very well be finite. However, since we cannot sense it, we have to measure it (Danielson 225). If we measure it, it somewhat appears as though the universe is indeed finite. However, we cannot be certain that there is a single body actually at rest. Therefore, we cannot truly create any legitimate frame of reference (Danielson 225). In short, we cannot be sure of anything with regard to the size of the universe. If I am correct, and there is no legitimate frame of reference, then it shall be forever impossible to determine the nature of the universe. Therefore, it is likely of indeterminate size.