science and Hermeneutics [Paperback]

Vern S. Poythress (Author)

Book Description

Series: Foundations of Contemporary Interpretation | Publication Date: July 23, 1988

'Many years ago, upon reading Thomas S. Kuhn's work The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, I was taken aback by the obvious parallels between the subject of that book and the field of biblical exegesis. It seemed strange then -- and more so now after all these years -- that no one had sought to draw out the implications of Kuhn's ideas for better understanding the conflicts that frequently arise over the interpretation of Scripture.' (from the preface) In this new volume of the Foundation of Contemporary Interpretation series, Vern Poythress gives an explanation of the conflicts that often arise between science and the interpretation of scripture. Novices and experts alike will be fascinated by the author's clear and perceptive account of the relationship between science and hermeneutics. Poythress' analysis will - help students of the Bible appreciate the origin and nature of interpretive disputes, - aid students in developing exegetical skills, and - allow students to examine opposing views.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

"Many years ago, upon reading Thomas S. Kuhn's work The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, I was taken aback by the obvious parallels between the subject of that book and the field of biblical exegesis. It seemed strange then -- and more so now after all these years -- that no one had sought to draw out the implications of Kuhn's ideas for better understanding the conflicts that frequently arise over the interpretation of Scripture." (from the preface) In this new volume of the Foundation of Contemporary Interpretation series, Vern Poythress gives an explanation of the conflicts that often arise between science and the interpretation of scripture. Novices and experts alike will be fascinated by the author's clear and perceptive account of the relationship between science and hermeneutics. Poythress' analysis will - help students of the Bible appreciate the origin and nature of interpretive disputes, - aid students in developing exegetical skills, and - allow students to examine opposing views.

About the Author

Dr. Vern Poythress (PhD, Harvard University; DTh, University of Stellenbach, 1981) is professor of New Testament interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary. In addition to numerous journal articles and essays, he is author of many books including Symphonic Theology, Understanding Dispensationalists, God-Centered Biblical Interpretation, The Returning King, and The Gender-Neutral Bible Controversy.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 18 and up
  
• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Zondervan (July 23, 1988)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0310409713
• ISBN-13: 978-0310409717
• Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.7 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,440,483 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Vern Sheridan Poythress is professor of New Testament interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary. He has six earned degrees, including a PhD from Harvard University and a ThD from the University of Stellenbosch. He is the author of numerous books on aspects of biblical interpretation and science.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Important theme and ideas, but too brief a coverage, January 19, 2005

By 

R. M. Williams "just an avid reader" (tucson, arizona USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: science and Hermeneutics (Paperback)

Science and Hermeneutics
Implication of Scientific Method for Biblical Interpretation

Vern Sheridan Poythress



This is the first book i've read by Poythress, and if i haven't heard so much good about him it would be the last, as is i will try to find another to see if his writings match up to his reputation.

It is shallow and disappointing. It starts what ought to be a dynamite discussion then jumps to something else just when it gets interesting. As a quick introduction to a wide set of ideas it is good, well written, engaging, interesting. As a carefully reasoned look at how Kuhn's philosophy of science can help theologians in designing and using a more scientific hermeneutic it is just too choppy and shallow to be in demand as a first read. It is more tantalizing then substantial, more a shadow then a ground breaking work to lead conservative Christians into an understanding of how Scriptural interpretation can grow by being in contact with modern science and philosophy of science. Maybe it is just too short to cover the subject properly....*grin*

but it is not a bad start, worthwhile the time to read, leaves lots more unasked but potential then it answers.
I don't regret reading it, but sadden not to know where to go to seek more similiar books. It's a good topic and deserves more from his pen.