A Case for the Existence of God - Hardcover

Overman, Dean L.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 074256312X ISBN 13: 9780742563124

Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2008

Synopsis

Some of the brightest scientific minds of our time, from Albert Einstein to Stephen Hawking, have made incredible insights into the earliest origins of the universe, but have failed to ultimately discover why there is something rather than nothing―why we exist. In A Case for the Existence of God, Dean L. Overman examines the latest theories about the origins of the universe and explains why even the most sophisticated science can only take us so far. Ultimately we must make a leap of faith to understand the world, and Overman argues that a leap into theism provides the most satisfying conclusions.

Overman explores fundamental questions about why our world exists and how it functions, using principles of logic, physics, and theology. In a time when religion and science are often portrayed as diametrically opposed, A Case for the Existence of God presents a refreshing view of the interplay between science and religion and makes a compelling case for the existence of God and his role in our world.

About this title

About the Author

Dean L. Overman is former senior partner of the international law firm Winston & Strawn. A former Templeton scholar at Oxford University in the fields of information theory, physics, and religion, he has also studied theology at Princeton Theological Seminary and was a visiting scholar at Harvard University. He is the author of A Case Against Accident and Self-Organization.

Review

Why is there something rather than nothing? Why is the universe deeply and beautifully transparent to scientific enquiry? Dean L. Overman argues with clarity and care that theism offers the most illuminating response to such profound questions. His book will be found helpful by many thoughtful seekers after truthful understanding. (Rev. John Polkinghorne, Cambridge University, author of Belief in God in an Age of Science, Templeton Prize recipient)

Modern science has been immensely successful describing nature, but as Albert Einstein put it, 'the most incomprehensible thing about the universe is that it is comprehensible.' Dean L. Overman offers an explanation that is at once simple and profound. As befits an experienced lawyer and deep thinker, his book presents a lucid and convincing case for a God who has revealed His existence through His creation. (Dr. Robert Kaita, Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University)

As it is the nature of God that he should be humanly apprehensible, while also incomprehensible―outside of the universe we live within―it is appropriate the knowledge of God requires multiple levels of 'knowing.' Indeed, religious or mystical experiences of God may be more telling witnesses than the rationalist or metaphysical approaches. Brilliantly Dean L. Overman, as a wise and skilled lawyer, puts the reader in the dock to test the validity of his or her atheism, deism, or unreflective secular mind-set. This is a challenging book that will not only stretch the mind but deepen the heart, to experience both the mind and heart of God. (James M. Houston, former fellow, Hertford College, Oxford; founder of Regent College)

A lucid and wide-ranging positive argument for the existence of God, based on a wide range of data from modern science and also on the cumulative testimony of many reported spiritual experiences. It is an excellent antidote for those who may think that science cannot make a rational case for God. (Keith Ward)

From the Afterword:In A Case for the Existence of God, Dean L. Overman clearly explains the importance of understanding our worldview and the presuppositions that form the basis of that worldview....Readers will find the book to be a window into their lives and thus, difficult to put down. (Armand Nicholi, Harvard Medical School, author of The Question of God)

Like a rare wine, Dean Overman is to be savored, not gulped. Crystal clear in his thinking and wide-ranging in his reading and discussion, he is a shining example of those who believe in thinking and think in believing. (Os Guinness, Oxford University, author of Long Journey Home)

Drawing on modern cosmology and information theory, Overman exposes fallacies that infested skeptics' thinking since Hume and Kant. . . . A book for readers who are willing to wrestle with the largest questions. (Booklist, Starred Review 2009-01-01)

Overman's attention . . . offers a fresh approach to the case for God's existence. (Publishers Weekly 2009-01-01)

In a time when religion and science are often portrayed as diametrically opposed, Overman presents a refreshing view of the interplay between science and religion and makes a compelling case for the existence of God and His role in our world. (The Morrow County Sentinel 2009-05-20)

[Overman] is at his best when he engages science....In all of his analyses, Overman demonstrates an impressive erudition regarding both scientific and philosophical literature. He interweaves the two disciplines in an engaging and interesting way, all the while recognizing the limitations of each sort of analysis....I believe this book makes a genuine contribution to contemporary apologetics, particular with his emphasis on science. (Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith)

Edition details

• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 074256312X
• ISBN 13: 9780742563124
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 264