Michael Michaud

Michael Michaud thoroughly examines the question of life in the universe from different angles. He presents society’s views on this subject in the past and in the present, exploring the implications for humanity if life is discovered in exoplanets. This book gives the most comprehensive examination I have read on this subject.

Below, for example, are two quotes from his exploration of Christianity's historical perspective (Kindle version):

Some sought to reconcile plurality with Christian doctrine by invoking what later became known as the Principle of Plenitude. (…) Multiple worlds with sentient life-forms could be seen as demonstrating the wisdom and benevolence of God) This theory did not resolve the underlying dilemma for Christian theology; if there were intelligent beings on other worlds, we might not be God's unique and central concern. (Loc. 250)

Vast realms of our own planet, previously unknown to Europe, were found to be inhabited by strange peoples and alien societies that had developed independently of Eurasia. Saint Augustine had condemned the belief in the very existence of such "Antipodeans." (Loc. 272)… (mehr)