Understanding the Christianity–Evolution Relationship

Explores the relationship between Christianity and evolution, drawing on ideas from the history and philosophy of science.

Michael Ruse (Author)

9781009277280, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 1 June 2023

225 pages
17.8 x 12.7 x 1.3 cm, 0.21 kg

'Michael Ruse has gifted us with a masterful treatment of the relationship between Christianity and evolutionary biology. Ruse insightfully frames the book around the historically and philosophically great differences (as well as interactions) between explanatory approaches that see the world as operating, at rock bottom, according to intelligent purpose or by physical causality. This guiding motif allows Ruse to apply insights gained in his distinguished career to major issues in the ongoing and growing Christianity-science discussion. The attentive reader will learn much about science, the history of science, and the varieties of Christian positions involved, and additionally receive a privileged glimpse into how one person, an expert who has pondered these important issues for a lifetime, conscientiously navigates them.' Michael L. Peterson, Professor of Philosophy, Asbury Theological Seminary

The relationship between science and religion is a topic that runs rife with misconceptions, misunderstandings and debates. Are science and religion always in conflict? Is Darwin's theory of evolution through natural selection atheistic? How does history shape current debates around science and religion? This book explores these questions in a neutral and balanced way, focusing on the Christianity-evolution relationship. It shows that two paradigms – the world as an organism and the world as a machine – have critically informed and guided the discussions. The author uses his deep understanding of the history and philosophy of science, particularly Darwinian evolutionary theory and its controversies through the past 150 years, to bring fresh ideas to the debate and to wider discussions such as environmental issues and hate. Understanding the Christianity-Evolution Relationship provides a lively and informative analysis and lays out multiple views so that readers can make their own judgements to increase their understanding.

Preface
1. Rival paradigms
2. The mechanists' god
3. The organicists' god
4. Humans
5. Environment
6. Hate
Epilogue
Common Misunderstandings
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: Evolution [PSAJ]