Cosmology and the Origin of the Universe: Historical and Conceptual Perspectives

Abstract: From a modern perspective cosmology is a historical science in so far that it deals with the development of the universe since its origin some 14 billion years ago. The origin itself may not be subject to scientific analysis and explanation. Nonetheless, there are theories that claim to explain the ultimate origin or "creation" of the universe. As shown by the history of cosmological thought, the very concept of "origin" is problematic and can be understood in different ways. While it is normally understood as a temporal concept, cosmic origin is not temporal by necessity. The universe can be assigned an origin even though it has no definite age. In order to clarify the question a view of earlier ideas will be helpful, these ideas coming not only from astronomy but also from philosophy and theology.