Analysis
In *The Grand Design*, Hawking and co-author Leonard Mlodinow argue that the laws of physics, such as gravity and quantum theory, can account for the universe's origins without requiring a divine creator. Hawking explicitly states that while God may exist, it is not necessary to invoke God to explain the universe's existence. This aligns with his long-standing scientific perspective on cosmology and the role of religion in explaining natural phenomena.
Background
Stephen Hawking was a renowned theoretical physicist known for his work on black holes and cosmology. *The Grand Design* (2010) explores questions about the nature of reality, the existence of God, and the origins of the universe from a scientific standpoint. Hawking often emphasized the power of science to explain the universe independently of religious explanations.
Verdict summary
Hawking's statement accurately reflects his view in *The Grand Design* that science can explain the universe without invoking a creator.