Science and Religion: Understanding the Issues

Addressing the complex issues at the interface of science and religion, this introductory textbook examines a range of basic scientific topics and their theological responses, including methodology, cosmology, evolution, and contemporary bio–ethical and environmental concerns. Examples and careful explanations of scientific concepts are included throughout. To shed light on the various issues at the crossroads of religion and science, the text also delves into the past to examine ideas from early scientists and theologians that have helped shape current thinking. While diverse viewpoints are considered, the focus of the text is on theological responses to science from a Christian perspective, and emphasizes areas where science and religion merge, rather than where they conflict.

Taking a balanced approach to the main debates, each chapter is accompanied by discussion questions and a list of biblical passages and relevant primary readings by a wide range of scientists and theologians. Timely, and without engaging in advocacy, Science and Religion: Understanding the Issues is an accessible introduction to the fascinating interface of science and theology.

CHAPTER 1: LEARNING FROM THE PAST.

CHAPTER 2: HOW WE KNOW WHAT WE KNOW.

PART TWO: COSMOLOGY.

CHAPTER 3: EXPLANATIONS OF THE COSMOS.

CHAPTER 4: CREATION MYTHS.

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CHAPTER 5: CURRENT UNDERSTANDINGS OF THE UNIVERSE.

CHAPTER 6: ESCHATOLOGY.

PART THREE: EVOLUTION.

CHAPTER 7: DARWIN CHANGES EVERYTHING.

CHAPTER 8: SCIENTIFIC EXPLANATIONS OF THE ORIGINS OF LIFE.

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CHAPTER 9: EVIDENCE FOR EVOLUTION.

CHAPTER 10: EVOLUTION AND DESIGN.

CHAPTER 11: HUMAN EVOLUTION.

PART FOUR: ETHICS IN A SCIENTIFIC AGE.

CHAPTER 12: WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN.

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CHAPTER 13: GENDER ISSUES.

CHAPTER 14: THE PROMISE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY.

CHAPTER 15: THE MEDICINE OF TOMORROW.

CHAPTER 16: STEWARDSHIP AND THE ENVIRONMENT.

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CHAPTER 17: COMMON THREADS AND ULTIMATE TRUTHS

Nancy Morvillo is Associate Professor of Biology at Florida Southern College and co–director of the Florida Center for Science and Religion. She mentors undergraduate students in original genetic research and has published in a variety of scientific and educational journals.

This is a well presented and interesting book written in a clear and economic style . . . These suggestions are made in the hope that this excellent work could become essential reading for courses in this country on science and religion.   (Science and Religion, 1 November 2012)

"Recommended. Upper–division undergraduate through professional collections." (Choice, 1 March 2011)