Nature, Human Nature, and God (Theology and the Sciences Series) [Paperback]

Ian G. Barbour (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1, 2002 | Series: Theology & the Sciences

In his latest work, the dean of religion and science tackles some of the thorniest issues posed by contemporary thought. Thoroughly conversant with current developments, Barbour offers astute analyses of the shape and import of evolutionary theory, indeterminacy, neuroscience, information theory, and artificial intelligence. He also addresses deeper philosophical issues and the idea of nature itself. Then with characteristic clarity and verve, Barbour advances to the interconnected religious questions at the core of contemporary debate: Are humans free? Does religion itself evolve? Are we immortal? Is God omnipotent? How does God act in nature? Barbour's creative and constructive work offers hope that newer religious insights and imperatives occasioned by deep interaction with science can address the environmental and global challenges posed by science's relentless advance.

Product Details

• Paperback: 180 pages
• Publisher: Fortress Press (June 1, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0800634772
• ISBN-13: 978-0800634773
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,057,791 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars A good reference book but not a "beach read"., October 20, 2002

By 

Allan M. Gathercoal "fdoamerica" (Norcross, GA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Nature, Human Nature, and God (Theology and the Sciences Series) (Paperback)

This is a dense and demanding read and, unless you have a basic comprehension of the deeper issues of both science and Christianity, you will be zooming around in Twilight Zone.

In Barbour's book quantum physics meets process theology, thrashes around and out comes... hum, well, I'm not actually sure. I got a bit lost in post-Darwinian evolution, genetics, neuroscience, astronomy, thermodynamics and relativity. I almost had it when Barbour threw in a dose of genetic engineering and global environmental issues. I felt like I was back at Cal State in a 400 level class as a freshman. Get the drift? "Genetic Drift"?

It is best to give you an example of his writing from a portion of his opening statement, Chapter 4;
"I hope to show that it is consistent with neuroscience, computer science and a theological view of human nature to understand a person as a multilevel, psychosomatic unity.... In the first three sections (of this chapter) I look at neuroscience, theology and research on artificial intelligence. I then examine some philosophical interpretations of consciousness. Finally I suggest that process philosophy (Albert Whitehead) can provide a conceptual framework for integrating these varied prospective on human nature."

When you consider his astute, erudite writing, and that he is tackling some of the thorniest issues confronting contemporary science and theology today, you have a slow and demanding read.
Dr. Barbour seldom uses stories or examples, but, when he does, they are like rain on parched earth. Relished.

Conditionally Recommended for any science or theology student or professional.