Could the Characters in Glen Larson's Battlestar Galactica, Based on LDS Ideology, Be Visions of Alien Life? Could His Writings Actually Be Based on Real Alien Life 'Out There'? Could His Sci-Fi Vision Be a Form of Communication from Other Worlds?
By Bobby Darvish
Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS
As an Iranian-American who was once deeply embedded in the Islamic faith and a former socialist and vegan, my journey has led me to reevaluate not just my religious and political views, but also the larger questions about our existence and place in the universe. One area of particular intrigue has been the science fiction realm, where I have come to understand how my own experiences and beliefs intersect with the writings of Glen A. Larson, the creator of the iconic Battlestar Galactica series. Could his portrayal of characters and worldviews, rooted in LDS (Latter-day Saints) ideology, be more than just imaginative storytelling? Could they be visions of alien life, or even a form of communication from other worlds?
LDS Ideology and Its Influence on Battlestar Galactica
At first glance, it might seem that the connection between the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and Battlestar Galactica might be a stretch. But a closer look reveals the substantial LDS influence in the show's narrative, particularly in its emphasis on concepts like humanity's divine origins, the struggle between good and evil, and a deep sense of prophecy and fate. Larson, a member of the LDS Church, incorporated several ideas that are deeply embedded in LDS theology, such as the belief in the pre-mortal existence of souls, eternal progression, and the cyclical nature of human history.
In Battlestar Galactica, the characters are often seen grappling with their destiny, their moral choices, and their understanding of higher powers. The concept of the "Lords of Kobol" and the emphasis on a divine plan for humanity may well echo LDS teachings about God’s eternal plan for salvation. Given that LDS theology includes the belief in other worlds and the potential for human life beyond Earth, the depiction of alien races and advanced civilizations in Larson's show could be interpreted as a parallel to the LDS vision of a divine universe teeming with life.
Could Battlestar Galactica Be Based on Real Alien Life?
One of the most profound questions that has arisen in my mind as I reflect on Battlestar Galactica is whether Larson’s vision could actually be a reflection of real alien life—possibly even a form of communication from other worlds. As someone who has spent years in the study of information technology and cybersecurity, the idea of receiving and interpreting signals from other civilizations is not just theoretical—it is something we are actively trying to do in the field of SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). Given that Larson was a devout member of the LDS Church, could his creation be a form of symbolic communication—a way of conveying truths or warnings that transcend mere fiction?
Many religious traditions, including Mormonism, have posited that life exists beyond Earth, with some even suggesting that extraterrestrial beings may have played a role in the development of humanity. The idea that alien life could be intertwined with religious belief is not a new concept for those familiar with LDS doctrine. In fact, some LDS teachings propose that God's creations are not limited to Earth, and that extraterrestrial life may be part of a grand divine design. Could it be that Larson, through his sci-fi narrative, was tapping into these profound theological ideas, perhaps even channeling a message from another civilization?
In a time when space exploration and the discovery of exoplanets are rapidly expanding, it’s not outside the realm of possibility that Larson’s depiction of intergalactic warfare, divine forces, and existential dilemmas might be an allegorical vision of real cosmic truths. Perhaps the struggles between the humans and the Cylons, as depicted in Battlestar Galactica, reflect a deeper, universal battle between good and evil that exists not just on Earth, but throughout the cosmos.
A Form of Communication From Other Worlds?
When I contemplate the possibility that Battlestar Galactica could be a form of communication from other worlds, I am reminded of the vast mysteries of the universe. As a former Muslim and a person deeply steeped in the philosophical and theological challenges of faith, I’ve come to understand that sometimes, the language of the cosmos might not be one of direct communication but rather symbolic or metaphorical. The intricacies of religious doctrine, especially in systems like Mormonism, could provide a framework for interpreting these messages, whether they come from alien life or are simply a reflection of Larson’s own understanding of divine purpose.
If we accept the premise that humanity is not alone in the universe, it is worth considering that our ancient spiritual traditions and modern scientific efforts might not be as separate as we once believed. Could Battlestar Galactica be bridging the gap between the two, offering not just an entertaining narrative but a profound spiritual inquiry into the nature of life, the universe, and the divine?
Larson’s writing, deeply rooted in his LDS background, might be more than just the product of a creative mind—it could be tapping into something much larger than himself, potentially influenced by universal truths that transcend our earthly understanding. The idea of alien life, advanced civilizations, and divine intervention within Battlestar Galactica might not be mere fantasy but an echo of a reality that is yet to be understood.
Conclusion
As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim, former socialist, and someone who has come to embrace Christian conservatism and LDS theology, I find the intersection of religion, science fiction, and extraterrestrial life to be a fascinating and thought-provoking topic. Whether Glen A. Larson’s Battlestar Galactica is a visionary work based on alien life or a creative exploration of divine truths, the ideas presented in the series continue to resonate with those of us who are searching for meaning in a vast and mysterious universe. Perhaps the story of humanity’s fight against the Cylons is not just fiction—it could be a cosmic allegory, a glimpse into a larger truth about our place in the cosmos, and a vision of the divine forces that govern us all.
Citations
- Mormons and Extraterrestrial Life: "Latter-Day Saints Believe in Life Beyond Earth," Deseret News, March 2020.
- Larson, Glen A. Battlestar Galactica: The Complete Guide, 2005.
- "SETI and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence," NASA Astrobiology Institute, 2023.
- Quinn, D. Michael. The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Signature Books, 1994.
No comments:
Post a Comment