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Join astrophysicist Hugh Ross and one of America’s most famous cosmologists, Brian Keating, as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence
Hugh and Brian discuss research on the polarization signals in the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR)—the radiation left over from the cosmic creation event—that Brian conducted on the BICEP, BICEP2, POLARBEAR2, and Simons Array telescopes. They also discuss the significance of the polarization signals in establishing what kind of inflation event occurred at the tiniest fraction of a second after the universe’s beginning and the ongoing quest to gather more data on the polarization of the CMBR as a tool to learn more about the beginning and design of the universe. Brian also briefly describes his spiritual journey: a member of a Catholic church during his youth, becoming an atheist, and now a devout Jew in practice but an agnostic in belief.
Links and Resources
Losing the Nobel Prize: A Story of Cosmology, Ambition, and the Perils of Science’s Highest HonorInto the Impossible: Think Like a Nobel Prize Winner -
Join Hugh Ross in this breaking News of the Day episode of Stars, Cells, and God. Hugh describes the first accurate dating of the beginning and end of the Sturtian snowball event—which covered over 80% of Earth’s surface with thick ice—and how this precise timing made advanced life possible.
Previous attempts to date the Sturtian snowball event were based on five or less detrital zircons.Geologists recovered more than 2,000 detrital zircons from the Port Askaig Formation in Scotland, where advancing and retreating glaciers had not eroded away the historical record of the Sturtian. In the words of lead author Elias J. Rugen, “by some miracle the transition can be seen.”Uranium-lead isotope measurements of the zircons yielded radiometric dates for when the sedimentary layers in the Port Askaig Formation transitioned from warm tropical to cold glacial conditions and back again.The uranium-lead derived ages showed that the Sturtian snowball event lasted from 720 to 663 million years ago.The Sturtian event dramatically reduced carbon dioxide and dramatically increased oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere.If the Sturtian event had occurred any earlier, then the Sun would have been too dim to prevent Earth from being permanently covered with ice. On the other hand, if the Sturtian event had occurred any later, then the brighter Sun would have shortened the duration and limited the ice coverage, resulting in too little oxygen and too much carbon dioxide in Earth’s atmosphere, ruling out the possibility of advanced life.Links and Resources:
Glacially Influenced Provenance and Sturtian Affinity Revealed by Detrital Zircon U–Pb Ages from Sandstones in the Port Askaig Formation, Dalradian SupergroupHugh Ross, Designed to the Core, 218–220. -
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RTB president Fazale “Fuz” Rana and Dr. Steve Willing, a seasoned neuroradiologist, tackle the sensitive and pivotal topic of transgenderism through a biblical perspective. From the philosophical and scientific considerations to the profound implications for society and individuals, join us as they navigate through this complex terrain with respect, compassion, and a commitment to seeking the truth in the pursuit of a better understanding of God’s design for humanity.
Transgenderism Through a Medical and Biblical Lens
Reasons to Believe explores this topic not only to shed light on the scientific underpinnings of gender identity, but also to provide a comprehensive understanding rooted in biblical teachings. This initiative stems from a commitment to offer credible, trustworthy insights amid a landscape fraught with controversy and differing perspectives. Fuz and Steve discuss the definitions of transgenderism and the evolving medical and societal landscapes, and they address critical questions surrounding gender identity. They examine recent studies and societal shifts that help explain why gender identity has become a leading issue in contemporary discourse.
DISCLAIMER: Reasons to Believe is expressing our Christian beliefs on the issue of gender identity in the intersection of science and faith, as it’s an important discussion and many people have valid questions.
This research showcases the expertise of select members of the Reasons to Believe Scholar Community on matters of gender identity. RTB is not offering medical or other professional advice. People need to consult with their own physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, etc. We want to see everyone make informed, educated decisions.
Links and Resources:
A Scientific and Medical Evaluation of TransgenderismTransgenderism and the Bible -
Join Hugh Ross in this breaking News of the Day episode of Stars, Cells, and God. Hugh describes how the latest measurements of cosmic baryon acoustic oscillations shed light on the true nature of dark energy and may resolve the tension between measurements of the cosmic expansion rate (Hubble constant) based on nearby galaxies with measurements based on the cosmic microwave background radiation and extremely distant galaxies.
Some of the Hubble constant tension is resolved by the fact that our galaxy resides in an under-dense part of the universe.The remaining tension can be resolved if (1) the curvature of the universe slightly departs from a flat geometry, (2) the dark energy equation of state slightly varies as the universe ages, and/or (3) systematic errors in expansion rate measurements based on Cepheid variable stars are greater than they are for the tip of the red giant branch stars.The Dark Energy Survey Collaboration (DESC) analyzed 1,829 type Ia supernovae with distances spanning 0.14–10.92 billion light-years calibrated by the most extensive survey of baryon acoustic oscillations.The DESC found that systematic errors in Cepheid variable star measures are a significant factor in the Hubble constant tension.The DESC showed that the latest survey of baryon acoustic oscillations revealed a slight variation in the dark energy equation of state.The Euclid telescope will soon map baryon acoustic oscillations to a far greater extent, which will provide a definitive resolution of the Hubble constant tension.Links and Resources:
The Dark Energy Survey Supernova Program: An Updated Measurement of the Hubble Constant Using the Inverse Distance LadderThe Dark Energy Survey Supernova Program: Investigating Beyond—ΛLCDMResolving Hubble Constant and Creation Tension -
Join Fazale “Fuz” Rana and Dr. Christina Cirucci, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, for a deep dive into the critical and controversial topic of gender identity and puberty blockers from a Christian perspective.
Gender Identity and Medical Ethics
There’s still much to explore regarding the ethical implications of gender identity and medical interventions. In this insightful dialogue, biochemist Fazale “Fuz” Rana and medical doctor Christina Cirucci discuss what puberty blockers are, their use in gender-affirming healthcare, and their reversibility and safety. Through her work and research with RTB, Dr. Cirucci raises thought-provoking questions that challenge Christians to consider their stance on issues such as:
What are the undisclosed risks associated with puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones in children and adolescents?What roles do parents and medical professionals play in decisions concerning gender identity care?How do Christian ethics shape our understanding of gender identity and medical interventions?Central to our discussion is the biblical concept that every human bears God’s image, underscoring their inherent dignity and worth. We emphasize the necessity of accurate and reliable information regarding gender identity care and advocate for compassionate, informed, and respectful responses.
Disclaimer: Reasons to Believe is expressing our Christian beliefs on the issues of gender identity in the intersection of science and faith, as it’s an important discussion and many people have valid questions.
This research showcases the expertise of select members of the Reasons to Believe Scholar Community on matters of gender identity. RTB is not offering medical or other professional advice. Individuals still need to consult with their own physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, etc. Our desire is to see everyone make informed, educated decisions.
Links & Resources:
A Scientific and Medical Evaluation of TransgenderismTransgenderism and the Bible -
Join Hugh Ross and David Winyard as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
Solar Probes Revolutionize Our Understanding of the Sun
Before NASA conducts research in space, much thought must go into mission planning and spacecraft design. Currently, two remarkable NASA missions demonstrate special orbits and heat management systems: the Parker Solar Probe and the James Webb Space Telescope. The former must endure intense heat as it loops between the Sun and the orbit of Venus. The latter operates far outside Earth’s orbit at low temperatures (below -370o F)—shielded from heat from the Sun, Earth, and Moon—to detect infrared light from deep space. Together, they are great vehicles to teach engineering dynamics and thermal-fluid science. Astrophysicist Hugh Ross and engineer David Winyard explain how insights gained from such missions will enhance scientists’ ability to forecast major space-weather events that impact life on Earth.
Links and Resources:
NASA’s Parker Solar Probe Mission Will Revolutionize Our Understanding of the Sun
Webb Image Release—Webb Space Telescope GSFC/NASA
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Join Hugh Ross and Jeff Zweerink as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
Himalayan Snow WarmingThree physicists used data collected from 165 stations in the Himalayan-Tibetan region and a regional climate model to determine the effect of black carbon aerosols (BCAs) on the climate of South Asia. Their analysis revealed warming at high elevations due to BCAs. Such atmospheric heating reduces the global mean precipitation, which impacts the summer monsoons in South Asia. Thus, all of South Asia is facing a climate change crisis with both dire economic and health consequences. In this episode, astrophysicist Hugh Ross explains that replacing coal and biofuels with natural gas as an energy source is the quickest and most economical solution to South Asia’s climate crisis.
Stabilizing ContinentsContinents play a critical role in Earth’s capacity to support a thriving and diverse array of life. Scientific studies show that some present-day continents formed at least 3 billion years ago. Those studies have assumed that the same process responsible for how our continents look today also ensured their stability. However, a recent paper highlights some important processes needed for large pieces of continents to stick around for billions of years. In this episode, astrophysicist Jeff Zweerink discusses how those processes reveal more fine-tuning of Earth to support life.
Links & Resources:Elevation-Dependence of Warming Due to Aerosol-Induced Snow Darkening over the Himalayan-Tibetan RegionClimate-Relevant Properties of Black Carbon Aerosols Revealed by In Situ Measurements: A ReviewSubaerial Weathering Drove Stabilization of Continents
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Join Fazale “Fuz” Rana and guest Casey Luskin as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
Nature-Inspired DesignsOne of the most exciting areas of science and engineering is biomimetics and bioinspiration. Scientists and engineers working in this field develop new technology and solve engineering problems by studying and copying biological designs. In this episode biochemist Fuz Rana and special guest Casey Luskin, associate director of the Discovery Institute’s Center for Science and Culture, discuss recent findings in biomimetics and bioinspiration and explore the implications of this work for the design argument.
Links & Resources:Effect of Schooling on Flow Generated Sounds from Carangiform SwimmersBioinspired Multiscale Adaptive Suction on Complex Dry Surfaces Enhanced by Regulated Water SecretionGeometric Design of Antireflective Leafhopper BrochosomesSpider Silk Inspires New Technology and the Case for a Creator -
Join Fazale “Fuz” Rana and Hugh Ross as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
A New Organelle?A team of life scientists has claimed to discover a new organelle (called a nitroplast) that fixes nitrogen. It looks like this organelle evolved from an endosymbiont that assumed permanent residence in a eukaryotic cell. If so, this discovery provides support for the endosymbiont hypothesis, challenging the notion that a Creator is responsible for life’s origin and design. In this episode, biochemist Fuz Rana describes this work and its significance to life’s history, and offers a critical assessment of the study’s conclusion.
Atmospheric OxygenationAn international team of 17 scientists has proposed that a dramatic weakening of Earth’s magnetic field caused an oxygen level jump 575 million years ago. They showed that a much weaker magnetic field would cause solar particles to split apart water molecules in Earth’s atmosphere into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen would escape to interplanetary space, leaving the oxygen to accumulate in Earth’s atmosphere. They demonstrated that that the magnetic field decline is sufficient to explain most of the rapid oxygen rise (from 2% to 8%) that occurred at the time of the Avalon explosion, which marked the first appearance of macroscopic animals. In this episode, Hugh Ross explains that the transition of Earth’s core from being 100% liquid to where a solid inner core begins to form would explain the dramatic weakening of Earth’s magnetic field—and the minimum oxygen level needed for complex life—that occurred 0.6 million years ago.
Links & Resources: Nitrogen-Fixing Organelle in a Marine AlgaMitochondrial Protein Import Advances the Case for CreationNear-Collapse of the Geomagnetic Field May Have Contributed to Atmospheric Oxygenation and Animal Radiation in the Ediacaran PeriodDesigned to the Core, 183–197 -
Join Fazale “Fuz” Rana in this breaking News of the Day episode of Stars, Cells, and God. Fuz reports on the work by a research team from Tianjin University in China, who, recently stole headlines when they announced that they developed a chip that used human brain tissue to control a robotics system. This remarkable breakthrough (called organoid intelligence) generates excitement and also raises some profound ethical and theological questions.
In this episode Fuz explains:How this technology worksWhy researchers are pursuing the development of biocomputing and organoid intelligenceEthical concerns associated with this workChristian perspective on organoid intelligenceLinks & Resources:Lab-Grown Human Brain Tissue Used to Control RobotOrganoid Intelligence (OI): The New Frontier in Biocomputing and Intelligence-in-a DishA Christian Perspective on Living ElectrodesBrain Organoids Cultivate the Case for Human Exceptionalism -
Join Hugh Ross in this breaking News of the Day episode of Stars, Cells, and God. Hugh describes the discovery of four fully-formed supermassive black holes that existed just 410–760 million years after the cosmic creation event.
Do Early Supermassive Black Holes Refute the Big Bang?Quasar J1120+0641, seen 760 million years after the cosmic beginning, has a supermassive black hole (SMBH) weighing 1.52 billion solar masses.Quasar J1342+0928, seen 700 million years after the beginning, has a SMBH weighing 0.78 billion solar masses.Quasar J0313-1806, seen 690 million years after the beginning, has a SMBH of 1.6 billion solar masses.The most distantly detected SMBH belongs to GN-z11. Just 410 million after the beginning, its SMBH weighs 0.002 billion solar masses.There are three ways such SMBHs can form so early in a big bang universe: through 1) very aggressive early gas accretion by the BHs; 2) mergers of the BHs arising from many 500+ solar-mass first generation stars; and 3) mergers of 10,000+ solar-mass gas clouds that collapse into black holes without forming stars.The discovery of many more cosmic dawn SMBHs will determine which one, of more, of the three ways explains the SMBHs. Links & ResourcesA Mature Quasar at Cosmic Dawn Revealed by JWST Rest-Frame Infrared SpectroscopyBlack Holes as Evidence of God’s Care -
Join Hugh Ross and Jeff Zweerink as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
Smart DamsMore than 58,000 dams that are built higher than 15 meters (50 feet) exist on nearly all the world’s rivers. Consequently, migratory fish stocks have declined by 76% since 1970 and populations of “megafish” have declined by 94%. Two water resource engineers combined fish migratory taxonomy data with migratory fish life cycle and dam impact models to determine the best fish rescue strategies for five flagship fish species residing in the 12 large dams on the Yangtze River in China. They identified six major misjudgments in China’s fish rescue programs and concluded that large, effective fishways are essential for maintaining robust fish stocks.
Malicious AIsThe quest for more powerful and capable AIs inevitably involves making more sophisticated training algorithms and models with a larger number of parameters. While pursuing this quest, AI developers are also investigating how to align AIs with the values and behaviors we want. Recent research demonstrated that those two goals currently stand in opposition to one another. Specifically, making larger, more sophisticated models results in AIs that effectively resist training to eliminate malicious behavior—regardless of whether the malicious behavior was intentionally programmed or an unintended consequence. Such results provide additional evidence that we humans need to build godly character in ourselves so that we can wisely and responsibly develop and use these powerful AI tools.
Links & Resources:Dams Trigger Exponential Population Declines of Migratory Fish The Evaluation of a Definite Integral by the Method of Brackets Illustrating Its Flexibility -
Join Hugh Ross in this breaking News of the Day episode of Stars, Cells, and God. Hugh describes the discovery of microspherules and meltglass at three North American sites, consistent with low-altitude airbursts from a disintegrating comet, that explain the Younger Dryas cooling onset 12,800 years ago.
Bolide Airbursts Trigger Recent Global Cooling EventDuring the younger Dryas (12,800–11,700 years ago), global mean temperatures plummeted by 10–15°C. This cooling event, in part, explains the unprecedented climate stability that persisted from 9,500 to 75 years ago.Geologists had cited the Hiawatha Impact Crater in northwestern Greenland as evidence for an asteroid impact that caused the younger Dryas cooling event.Recently, physicists disputed the claimed 12,800 years ago date for the Hiawatha Crater, citing argon-argon and uranium-lead dating of zircon crystals that yielded a melt date of 57.99±0.54 million years ago.26 scientists report their discovery of microspherules, meltglass, nanodiamonds, and combustion aerosols, consistent with them being caused by low-altitude airbursts, at sites in New Jersey, Maryland, and South Carolina.The microspherules, meltglass, and nanodiamonds all have radiocarbon dates of 12,835—12,735 years ago. The implied melt temperatures range from 1,250°C to 3,053°C.The high-temperature, high-pressure shock waves generated by low-altitude airbursts from a disintegrating comet would explain the Younger Dryas Cooling Event and the accompanying multi-continent megafaunal extinctions but would not necessarily leave behind any discoverable impact craters.Links & Resources: Platinum, Shock-Fractured Quartz, Microspherules, and Meltglass Widely Distributed in Eastern USA at the Younger Dryas Onset (12.8 ka)Hugh Ross, Weathering Climate Change (Covina, CA: RTB Press, 2020): 149–161, 187–191. - Vis mere
