Beyond Religion: Finding Meaning in Evolution

This is a book about spirituality and religion, written from the perspective of a psychologist, not a theologian. Psychologists are trained to base decisions on empirical evidence and reason, and the author maintains that this should be the basis for not only living our day-to-day lives but also for answers to existential questions and for the creation of accurate worldviews, in contrast to religions which have been informed primarily by tradition and purported revelations.

Raised as an evangelical Christian, the author has spent a lifetime searching for satisfactory answers to existential questions such as the meaning of life. He found answers from the study of science and history and by employing critical thinking. Throughout this journey of exploration he has maintained a belief in God, although his understanding of God has greatly evolved. He also has remained a Christian, that is he has remained a committed follower of the teachings of Jesus.

Modern disciplines such as classical physics, quantum physics, thermodynamics, evolutionary science, astronomy, neuroscience, history, and consciousness studies have given us new knowledge which is very pertinent to an accurate worldview about ultimate realities and God. Throughout the 13.8-billion-year history of our universe one phenomenon has predominated: increasing complexity and growth. This cosmic evolution, the author maintains, is the unfolding manifestation of God.

Craig R. Vander Maas is a clinical psychologist whose vocational specialties are neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. However, his research and writing interests are evolutionary psychology, developmental psychology (especially spiritual development), and transpersonal psychology. The author and his spouse, Mark, divide their time between Grand Rapids, Michigan and Rancho Mirage, California.