In this article the big bang theory is examined critically. Points considered include problems having to do with initial values, entropy, the initial expansion rate, the relative abundance of matter and antimatter, the formation of stars and galaxies, the interpretation of the cosmic red shift, the missing mass, uncertainties in the Hubble relation and constant, the distribution of quasars, the synthesis of elements, and the Schwartzschild radius of the universe. It is concluded that the big-bang theory fails to provide a satisfactory explanation of the universe.