Science and Theology (Paperback)

~ J. C. Polkinghorne (Author)
Key Phrases: world faith traditions, causal joint, New Testament, Jesus Christ, Anthropic Principle (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

In this short masterpiece, eminent scientist and theologian John Polkinghorne offers an accessible, yet authoritative, introduction to the stimulating field of science and theology. After surveying their volatile historical relationship, he leads the reader through the whole array of questions at the nexus of the scientific and religious quests. A lucid and lively writer, Polkinghorne provides a marvelously clear overview of the major elements of current science (including quantum theory, chaos theory, time, and cosmology). He then offers a concise outline of the character of religion and shows the joint potential of science of religion to illumine some of the thorniest issues in theology today: creation, the nature of knowledge, human and divine identity and agency. Polkinghorne aptly demonstrates that a sturdy faith has nothing to fear and much to gain from an intellectually honest appraisal of the new horizons of contemporary science.

About the Author

John Polkinghorne is President Emeritus of Queen's College, Cambridge, England, and a Fellow of the Royal Society. A former professor of mathematical physics, he is also an ordained priest in the Church of England. Queen Elizabeth knighted him in 1997.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 156 pages
• Publisher: Augsburg Fortress Publishers; 1ST edition (September 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0800631536
• ISBN-13: 978-0800631536
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #278,555 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

32 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Accessible, January 3, 2000

By	R. Michael Friends (Round Rock, TX USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I thoroughly enjoyed this great book by John Polkinghorne. Polkinghorne's writing style is brilliant. The "Introduction" in the title and the book's small size deceived me at first; this book is no "quick read." Thankfully, the book is conveniently broken into small bite-sized sections, allowing one to absorbed and reflect on Polkinghorne's insightful work. This is Polkinghorne's most accessible work, and I highly recommend it.

30 of 36 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Masterly summary of Science & Theology from a real expert., April 21, 1999

By A Customer

John Polkinghorne is probably the greatest writer on science and religion to date - the only truly world-class scientist who has become a theologian. This book is his 'textbook' surveying the field, discussing other authors and providing a rounded view. Everyone seriously interested in ultimate questions should read this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books , July 8, 2008

By	Barbara Ellis "barbara ellis" (New York) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Amazon Verified Purchase

This is one of the best books on these subjects I have ever read. It brings into account science,nature, evolution, intelligent design and religion with being bias. This is a book I will keep as one of my reference books and I probably will read it again sometime in the future. Not difficult to read. He makes some great points. Very glad I bought it.