description Calculating God Overview
Calculating God is a science fiction novel written by Robert J. Sawyer and published in 2000. The story follows an alien species that arrives on Earth seeking evidence of a creator, teaming up with a human paleontologist to examine the fossil record for signs of intelligent design. The narrative explores the complex intersection of evolutionary biology, paleontology, and theology.
The book was well-received and was a finalist for the Hugo Award for Best Novel.
help Calculating God FAQ
What is the premise of Robert J. Sawyer's Calculating God?
An alien named Hollus arrives at Toronto's Royal Ontario Museum looking for a paleontologist. Hollus wants to examine Earth's fossil record for evidence of a creator.
Who is Thomas Jericho in Calculating God?
Thomas Jericho is the Royal Ontario Museum paleontologist who becomes Hollus's human research partner. He is also dealing with terminal lung cancer, which makes the book's questions about suffering especially personal.
What scientific idea drives the debates in Calculating God?
Hollus points to the apparent similarity of major evolutionary catastrophes across several planets, including Earth's mass extinctions. The discussions connect paleontology with arguments about intelligent design, evolution, and the Fermi paradox.
Was Calculating God nominated for major science-fiction awards?
The 2000 novel received nominations for the Hugo Award and the John W. Campbell Memorial Award in 2001. It was published by Tor Books.
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