Journey of the Universe: Conversations

Journey of the Universe: Conversations is a much larger complement to the award-winning 2011 documentary Journey of the Universe (also newly available on DVD for $24.98), based on the same-titled book by Brian Thomas Swimme and Mary Evelyn Tucker (hailed by environmental writers Bill McKibben and Terry Tempest Williams, among others). Conversations features excerpts from the original film, coupled with extended interviews between Yale historian of religions Tucker and various cutting-edge scientists, mavens, and deep thinkers (most of them also authors). Discussing relevant matters, interviewees here range from physicists Joel Primack and Todd Duncan, elaborating about the Big Bang and Earth's formation; to biologist Ursula Goodenough and anthropologist Terry Deacon illuminating the origins of life and mankind's ascent up the species chain; to high-profile nuns Paula Gonzalez and Marya Grathwohl speaking on sustainability and trying to reform convicts with a redemptive message of cosmology. The global-warming-influenced ethical message here—i.e., that humans are interconnected with the environment and must assume responsibility as stewards—is at the heart of the Earth Charter, which aims to build a “just, sustainable, and peaceful global society in the 21st century.” Journey of the Universe: Conversations offers a holistic argument that incorporates science and spirituality, serving up many awe-inspiring moments that deal with the miraculous circumstances that have allowed our world to exist and thrive at all. Accompanied by a booklet, this multi-disc set is a thought-provoking companion series to Journey of the Universe, which is also recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)