In Chapter 18 of Minds, Brains, Souls and Gods: A Conversation on Faith, Psychology and Neuroscience (InterVarsity Press, 2013), Malcolm Jeeves[1] discusses the question “Can Science ‘Explain Away' Religion?” with his fictional psychology student "mentee". Have you wrestled with this question? How have you addressed it? Do you concur with what Jeeves offers? Can Science “Explain Away” Religion? Malcolm, Your emails have pointed out that the same evidence is often interpreted in very different ways. For example, … [Read more...] about Can Science ‘Explain Away’ Religion?
science and religion
Science in Review — February 2013
One of my favorite Scripture passages is the parable of the sower. It's botany! It's metaphor! And it's a rare parable to include an explanation... sort of. Sure, Jesus decodes the allegory for his disciples, but what is the application? Is it a call to sow our seeds lavishly because we are not responsible for the condition of the soil, or is it a lesson on how to use our time and energy efficiently? Are we being encouraged to prepare the soil before we go about sowing? Are we being asked to reflect on the condition of … [Read more...] about Science in Review — February 2013
Mystery & Evidence
Mystery and Evidence's (Tim Crane. NY Times. 9/5/2010) opening paragraph immediately caught my attention. There is a story about Bertrand Russell giving a public lecture somewhere or other, defending his atheism. A furious woman stood up at the end of the lecture and asked: “And Lord Russell, what will you say when you stand in front of the throne of God on judgment day?” Russell replied: “I will say: ‘I'm terribly sorry, but you didn't give us enough evidence.' ” What do you think of Russell's response? By … [Read more...] about Mystery & Evidence
History of Science Recommendations from Ted Davis
Last week, Edward B. (“Ted”) Davis, Distinguished Professor of the History of Science at Messiah College (Grantham, PA) and outgoing president of the American Scientific Affiliation (ASA), shared with us how he became interested in History of Science and some tips for Emerging Scholars as they seek academic positions. In this second post, we explore recommended resources for those interested in the History of Science. Let's get started ’ Thomas B. Grosh IV [TG]: For members of ESN with an interest in History of … [Read more...] about History of Science Recommendations from Ted Davis