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

206 pages
17.8 x 12.7 x 1.3 cm, 0.21 kg

'This book is a presentation of a new way of looking at the debates that have taken place over the relationship of Darwinian evolution to Christianity in the hope that it will stimulate a fresh way of thinking about the issues involved. It provides a good overview of these debates and deserves to be read and given careful consideration.' Ernest Lucas, Science and Christian Belief

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]