Human Survival Beyond Earth: A Critical Analysis of Stephen Hawking’s Cosmological Vision in Light of Quranic Discourses

Abstract

The question of whether humanity can survive beyond Earth has become central in contemporary scientific and philosophical debate. Stephen Hawking, one of the most influential theoretical physicists of the modern era, emphasized that humankind must eventually leave Earth to ensure its long-term survival. He identified existential threats such as asteroid collisions, nuclear war, climate change, and overpopulation as potential causes of human extinction. This article critically examines Hawking’s arguments through a comparative analysis with Quranic discourse. The study explores how the Qur’an addresses humanity’s cosmic role, the divine purpose of creation, and the boundaries of human exploration. While Hawking’s outlook is grounded in material determinism and technological optimism, the Quranic worldview situates human progress within divine order and moral accountability. The paper concludes that both perspectives, despite their ontological differences, converge on the necessity of human responsibility toward survival and the preservation of life. A balanced approach between scientific advancement and divine guidance is proposed for humanity’s sustainable future.