Enriching Our Vision of Reality: Theology and the Natural Sciences in Dialogue - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0281075441 ISBN 13: 9780281075447

Publisher: SPCK

Synopsis

In this exceptional volume, Alister McGrath writes for scientists with an interest in theology, and Christians and theologians who are aware of the importance of the natural sciences. A scene-setting chapter explores the importance of the human quest for intelligibility. The focus then moves to three leading figures who have stimulated discussion about the relation of science and theology in recent years: Charles Coulson, an Oxford professor of theoretical chemistry who was also a prominent Methodist lay preacher; Ian Ramsey, sometime Bishop of Durham; and John Polkinghorne, theoretical physicist, theologian and Anglican priest. The latter part of the book features six parallel conversations between science and theology, which lay the groundwork for the kind of enriched vision of reality the author hopes to encourage. Here, we are inspired to enjoy individual aspects of nature while seeking to interpret these in the light of deeper revelations about our gloriously strange universe.

About this title

About the Author

ALISTER MCGRATH is the Andreos Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at the University of Oxford, President of the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (OCCA), and (from 2015-18) Gresham Professor of Divinity. His previous posts include Professor of Theology and Education at King's College, London, and Professor of Historical Theology at Oxford University. McGrath gained first class honours from Oxford University in Chemistry (1975) and first class honours in Theology (1978). He holds an Oxford DPhil (1978) for his research in molecular biology, a DD from Oxford University's Faculty of Theology for his work in historical and systematic theology (2001), and a DLitt from Oxford University's Division of Humanities for his research in science and religion (2013). He was elected FRSA in 2005, in recognition of his work as a public intellectual. A former atheist, he has established a reputation as one of the leading apologists for Christianity, as well as one of the world's most respected Christian theologians. His many books include a new highly acclaimed biography of C. S. Lewis, a series of market-leading textbooks in Christian theology, and some best-selling books engaging with the 'New Atheism'.

Review

"A brilliant exploration of the relationship between Christian theology and the natural sciences by one of the world's foremost authorities." —BioLogos

"Enriching our Vision of Reality is elegant, erudite and animated by a constant enthusiasm for its subject. There is everything here—science, theology, philosophy, biography, even some poetry—all enlisted to help us to see the world as it is, both more clearly and with greater delight." — The Reverend Dr. Andrew Davison, Starbridge Lecturer in Theology and Natural Sciences, University of Cambridge, and Fellow in Theology at Corpus Christi College

"It’s a pleasure to read an introduction to science and Christian belief that is both erudite and accessible. McGrath’s new book is rich with personal examples, biographies of famous scientists and theologians, and effective refutations of their detractors. This invitation to move forward from a bifurcated to an expansive view of reality is recommended for all who seek an ‘integrated understanding’ of science and Christian faith." — Philip Clayton, editor of The Oxford Handbook of Religion and Science

"This is an accessible yet scholarly treatment that deserves a wide readership amongst scientists, theologians and all those interested in how science and faith mutually interact." — Denis R. Alexander, Emeritus Director of The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion, Cambridge, U.K.

“By reading McGrath, we gravely risk becoming inspired by an expansive vision of reality and doomed to be discontent with any cramped portion of it.” — David Lahti, associate professor of biology, City University of New York

"As thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is inspired and inspiring, 'Enriching our Vision of Reality' is an extraordinarily informed and informative read from beginning to end. One of those impressively memorable studies that will be of equal interest to scientists and theologians, [the book] is very highly recommended for seminary, church, community, and academic library Christian Studies collections. it should be noted for the personal reading lists of academicians, seminary students, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that 'Enriching Our Vision of Reality' is also available in a digital book format." —  Mary Cowper, Midwest Book Review

Edition details

• Publisher: SPCK
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0281075441
• ISBN 13: 9780281075447
• Binding: Paperback