Stephen Hawking is one of the most famous scientists in the world. He made a very large impact on the world of science and was very expressive about his opinions to the world.
A very opinionated scientist, he released his opinions to the public and was very vocal about what he believed. This spread his work far across the world, leading him to become a very well known figure to many people. His last book that was published discussed his shocking opinions on God.
Who is Stephen Hawking?
Stephen Hawking is an English physicist, cosmologist, and author. Born in Oxford, England, he wrote many books throughout the course of his lifetime about physics and different big questions in the field.
He worked at the University of Cambridge, inspiring students and continuing to inform others about the world of quantum physics. He led research, especially on black holes, published papers, supervised students, and held lectures.
Against All Odds
Hawking was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, at the age of 21. This disorder is neurological and affects one’s motor cells, making it hard to control your own muscles.
Hawking was not expected to live past the age of 21 and continued to speak his opinions on science all the way up until his death. He died at age 76 in March of 2018.
An Inspiration to All
Despite his diagnosis, Hawking continued to live his life to the fullest. Over time living with ALS, Hawking’s paralysis worsened and he became more and more paralyzed over the years. Incapable of most of his motor skills, Hawking had to use a wheelchair to travel. He also could not speak on his own, therefore needing to use a computer system to express himself.
Though he had trouble carrying out his day to day actions, Hawking continued to advance his work in science and inform others about his findings. He prevailed through his work and as a result became one of the most well known scientists of all time.
Not Afraid of Death
Hawking made advancements in his discoveries throughout his entire life. After he was diagnosed with ALS, he continued to pursue what he loves and keep working in the field of physics. The thought of his own imminent death looming over him did not stop him.
He was told he wouldn’t live past 21. Though this news was incredibly disheartening, Hawking didn’t let that stop him from continuing to work hard at his passions. He claimed that he was not afraid to die, and still had so much more he wanted to do before his time was up.
An Avid Writer
Hawking wrote many books throughout his lifetime. In total, he either authored or co-authored 15 books. He also published many scientific papers and articles throughout his career that have inspired many scientists far into the future.
Some of Hawking’s most famous books are _A Brief History of Time, The Universe in a Nutshell, My Brief History, The Grand Design, _and_ Brief Answers to the Big Questions._
Hawking Tells All
The last book published by Hawking is called _Brief Answers to the Big Questions._ This book details the answers to questions that Hawking has been asked the most throughout his lifetime. The book was published on October 16, 2018 by Bantam Books.
It is written in a way that most people can comprehend the points he is trying to make, even if they aren’t scientists. He uses scientific terms but also explains them using language that mostly everyone understands. This book encourages the reader to reflect on those big scientific questions that everyone ponders at some point in their lives.
A Writer Even in Death
Hawking passed away before he was able to finish writing _Brief Answers to the Big Questions. _His family and colleagues took it upon themselves to finish writing the book that he started, utilizing Hawking’s many journals and publications to guide them along the way.
In the end, Hawking’s last book was published after his death, making it so much more meaningful. He tackles big, thought provoking topics and brings up opinions that could be debated for a long time.
There is No God
One of the main points that Hawking touches on in his last publication is his belief that there is no God. He mentions that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but he believes that no one entity created the universe and decides how our futures will pan out.
Hawking explains in his writing that there is no afterlife, and after we die we “return to dust.” He goes on to elaborate that people who believe in the afterlife are simply afraid to comprehend that one’s body will shut down after death. Lastly, he asserts that the belief in the afterlife is just “wishful thinking” and that after death, our time has come to a final end.
Extreme Opinions
Hawking mentions a few other large beliefs in his last publication. He declares that there are other living creatures out there in the universe that we haven’t discovered yet, essentially professing that aliens are real. He also affirms that time travel can’t be ruled out as a possibility for the future.
Some of the other arguments that Hawking attests are that artificial intelligence could one day surpass human intelligence, climate change is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed, and black holes are critical for understanding our existence as we know it.
A Highly Valued Scientist
Westminster Abbey in London is home to the ashes of many very famous scientists. These include Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Ernest Rutherford. They are all in this significant location, commemorating their hard work and brilliance. After Hawking’s death, his ashes are now there as well.
Westminster Abbey is well known for its extravagant architecture, making it a place where many people love to visit. People come from all over the world to visit this location, purchasing tickets to visit with their friends and family. People also visit to pay their respects and visit the graves of the notable figures that are buried there.
An Atheist at Heart
Hawking has always seen himself as an atheist. Because he is so involved with matters related to science, he claimed that everything in the universe could be explained by science and therefore there is no need for a belief in God.
He stated that science offers a more convincing explanation of the creation of the universe than the belief that the creation was done by God.
Avid Believer in the Big Bang Theory
Throughout his time as a scientist, Hawking was a large advocate for the Big Bang Theory. He believed that the universe all started from one point and has since expanded to create the universe as we know it.
He has continued to study the Big Bang Theory since its creation, analyzing how it has evolved and changed over time. He looks at this aspect of the universe through a lens of quantum physics, applying quantum theory to his conclusions and opinions.
A Cultural Icon
Stephen Hawking’s ability to be vocal about his beliefs and publish all of his thoughts for the world led to his fame. He became an incredibly well known figure with a very recognizable name.
Because of his familiarity within society, he has appeared as a character in multiple shows and movies. For example, he has been written into both “The Simpsons” and “Star Trek” as a character and his recognizable characteristics have been appreciated by many.
A Lasting Impact
Hawking’s conclusions have largely influenced the field of science today, especially in the category of quantum mechanics. His ability to persevere and continue his career despite his medical condition worsening has made Hawking a large inspiration to many.
His publications have largely impacted society’s beliefs of the creation of the universe and will continue to be referenced by many for years to come.
