Should We Pass the Great Filter? The Search for Multiplanetarism in Light of Herman Dooyeweerd's Theory of Ground Motives

This paper provides a Christian philosophical and theological response to the moral imperative of human advancement through multiplanetarism as emerging from the Great Filter theory. First, it explains the so-called Fermi Paradox that underlies the Great Filter theory. Next, it explores this theory itself and its motivational power in driving advancement towards multiplanetarism. Third, in light of this we analyse the relevant statements of SpaceX founder and chief engineer Elon Musk as a prime example of someone who is committed to the multiplanetary endeavor. Finally, we will assess these motivations (and the accompanying normative assumptions) behind space exploration and multiplanetarism from the perspective of reformational philosophy, using Herman Dooyeweerd’s theory of ground motives as a lens. The leading research question of this paper is: How can we assess the current attempts at securing a multiplanetary existence for humankind in light of Dooyeweerd’s theory of ground motives? Our answer will point out that there is no fundamental reason why humans should not pass the Great Filter.