Nature, Human Nature, and God

by Ian G. Barbour

Overview

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

ISBN-13:	9780800634773
Publisher:	1517 Media
Publication date:	06/24/2002
Series:	Theology and the Sciences
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	184
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.25(d)

About the Author

Ian G. Barbour is Bean Professor of Science, Technology, and Society, Emeritus at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota. A recipient of the Templeton Prize in Religion, Barbour is author of When Science Meets Religion (2000) and Religion and Science: Historical and Contemporary Issues (1997).

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

God and Evolution

Darwinism Evolving

Biological Processes

Models of God's Action in Nature

God's Action in Process Theology

Evolution, Genetics, and Human Nature

Human Evolution

Human Nature in Theology

Genetic Determination and Human Freedom

Neuroscience, Artificial Intelligence, and Human Nature

Neuroscience and Selfhood

The Self in Theology

Artificial Intelligence and Human Nature

Philosophical Interpretations of Consciousness

Process Philosophy

God and Nature: A Process View

Historical Background

God's Self-Limitation

Process Theology

Theology, Ethics, and the Environment

Historical Background

God and Nature

Humanity and Nature

Justice, Technology, and the Environment

Acknowledgments

Notes

Index of Authors

Index of Subjects