[koz-mol-uh-jee] 
| 1. | the branch of philosophy dealing with the origin and general structure of the universe, with its parts, elements, and laws, and esp. with such of its characteristics as space, time, causality, and freedom. |
| 2. | the branch of astronomy that deals with the general structure and evolution of the universe. |
| cos·mol·o·gy (kŏz-mŏl'ə-jē) n. pl. cos·mol·o·gies
|
A system of beliefs that seeks to describe or explain the origin and structure of the universe. A cosmology attempts to establish an ordered, harmonious framework that integrates time, space, the planets, stars, and other celestial phenomena. In so-called primitive societies, cosmologies help explain the relationship of human beings to the rest of the universe and are therefore closely tied to religious beliefs and practices. In modern industrial societies, cosmologies seek to explain the universe through astronomy and mathematics. Metaphysics also plays a part in the formation of cosmologies. (See also under “Physical Sciences and Mathematics.”)
The branch of science dealing with the large-scale structure, origins, and development of the universe. (See astronomy and Big Bang theory.)
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