Science, Life, and Christian Belief: A Survey of Contemporary Issues

In 1633, Galileo proposed to the Church in Rome that the earth rotated around the sun. History records that the results were devastating. Galileo was arrested, forced to renounce his convictions, and spent the rest of his life under house arrest. Since then the relationship between science and religion has often been one of contention and animosity.

Many in the church today, however, are sympathetic to the views of science. They see the complementary nature of science and religion and believe that, if correctly understood, each supports the other. In Science, Life and Christian Belief, Malcolm Jeeves, an experimental psychologist and specialist in neuropsychology, and R. J. Berry, an ecological geneticist, focus their attention on some of the more controversial issues that exist between the scientific and religious communities.

The authors begin with a discussion of foundational topics such as the Hebrew-Christian and Greek influences on modern science and the nature of the scientific method. They then address five major areas of concern: origins, ontology, biology, psychology, and ecology.

Regarding origins, the authors juxtapose the controversial positions of creationism and evolution and the theological implications of each. Ontological issues include the spiritual nature of humanity, the possible existence of an immortal soul and spirit, and what it means to be created in the image of God. The biological discussion is centered around the possibility of the origin of life and cellular development without the influence of God. The psychological issues deal with the mental and emotional characteristics of humanity, such as the difference between the animal and human psyche. Lastly, the authors address the care and stewardship of creation, developing a biblical understanding of environmentalism and answering contemporary criticisms.

Intended for students, scholars, and interested lay readers, this volume makes a substantial contribution to the ongoing dialogue between science and the Christian faith.