Abstract

The universe as a whole seems to have evolved from a simple beginning over a long period of time in accordance with physical laws. Studying and simulating that process in computer models has shown that these physical laws, and the initial conditions, must be set remarkably precisely, in order for an interesting universe to develop, one with sufficient richness and complexity to sustain any form of life. This has become known as “cosmological fine tuning”.

At a more local level, life on Earth also seems to have evolved from a simple beginning over a long period of time in accordance with biological principles. Biologists sometimes argue that the process of natural selection is so powerful and robust that any system of reproducing elements that has a mechanism for inheritance will inevitably develop into complex and highly adapted forms. In contrast, I will argue that studying and simulating that process in computer models has shown that the details of the selection process, and the initial conditions, must be set remarkably precisely, in order for an interesting biological universe to develop. Hence, I argue there is evidence for “biological fine tuning”.

Both forms of fine tuning may be relevant to a scientifically informed design argument.