The inner meaning of outer space: human nature and the celestial realm

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"Kant argued that humans possess a priori knowledgeof space; although his argument focused on aphysics of bodies, it also has implications for apsychology of beings. Many human cultures organizestars in the night sky into constellations (i.e.,impose structure); attribute properties, behaviors,and abilities to objects in the celestial realm (i.e.,impose meaning); and use perceived regularity inthe celestial realms in development of calendars,long-range navigation, agriculture, and astrology(i.e., seek predictability and control). The physicalinaccessibility of the celestial realm allows a potentsource of metaphor, and also allows projection ofmyths regarding origin and ascension, places ofpower, and dwelling places of gods, immortals, andother souls. Developments in astronomy and cosmologyinfl uenced views of human nature and theplace of humanity in the universe, and these changesparallel declines in egocentrism with humandevelopment. Views regarding alleged beings (e.g.,angels, extraterrestrials) from the celestial realm(and to how communicate with such beings) areanthropocentric and ignore evolutionary factors inphysical and cognitive development. It is suggestedthat in considering views and uses of the celestialrealm, we learn not just about the universe, but alsoabout ourselves."