  Astrobiology is the field of science devoted to searching for life elsewhere
in the Universe. It is inherently interdisciplinary, integrating results from
multiple fields of science, and in this respect has strong synergies with 'big
history'. I argue that big history and astrobiology are both acting to widen
human perspectives in intellectually and socially beneficial directions,
especially by enhancing public awareness of cosmic and evolutionary worldviews.
I will further argue that these perspectives have important implications for
the social and political organisation of humanity, including the eventual
political unification of our planet. Astrobiology and big history are also
concerned with the future of humanity, and I will argue that this future will
be culturally and intellectually enriched if it includes the exploration of the
universe around us.
