Scientists as Theologians

by John C. Polkinghorne

Ian Barbour, Arthur Peackocke and John Polkinghorne are major contributors to the current interaction between science and religion. Although starting as scientists, all three have produced important work by crossing over to the field of theology. But, as their thinking has developed, differences between them have emerged. Questions such as the significance of Jesus, the Bible and the relationship between modern scientific knowledge and traditional theology have revealed a variety of approaches. One of the three now gives his survey of the debate. John Polkinghorne sets out clearly where they agree, why they differ and draws conclusions about possible future directions. His account provides both an accessible introduction to the field of science and religion and an assessment of what is at stake.

Genres: Theology, Science

Paperback

First published April 11, 1996

About the author

John Charlton Polkinghorne is an English theoretical physicist, theologian, writer and Anglican priest. A prominent and leading voice explaining the relationship between science and religion, he was professor of Mathematical physics at the University of Cambridge from 1968 to 1979, when he resigned his chair to study for the priesthood, becoming an ordained Anglican priest in 1982. He served as the president of Queens' College, Cambridge from 1988 until 1996.

Reviews

[Rick Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

1. What is this?

This book is an introduction to Critical Realism. A group of Scientists turned Priests write their perspective from the Christian view. The Second chapter was the most interesting which expands critical realism.

2. What does Polkinghorne say?

John says, Intelligently requires the adoption of a prior point of view, and he compares Ian Barbour, Peacock's view.

3. What is Critical Realism?

Enlightenment-Positivism:
a) Observation
b) Test by empirical observation
c) Doesn't work, declare it as non-sense

Phenomenological:
{Focus on Essence of things}

a) Observation of subjective experience
b) Describe how phenomena appear to our consciousness
c) Focus on Perception

eg: Applying Phenomenological perspective, "I am drinking Coffee"

a) How coffee looks to me, brown color, team rising, light shades in it
b) Holding the coffee, my experience of feeling the ceramic
c) Taste & Texture of the Coffee; Coffee Smell
d) Sensations, Emotions, Memories associated with Coffee

Critical Realism:

a) Observer
b) Objective Observation
c) Challenge by Critical reflection
d) Critical Reflection, involves, dialogue, conversation

Shorter steps:
a) Acknowledge independent reality exists
b) Find hidden and visible causes
c) Refine understanding from critical reflection

eg: Poverty in Society
1) Poverty is a real social reality
2) Poverty is not only lack of money [visible]
3) Poverty is due to lack of access to education [hidden causes], social policy, economic system

So, Critical Realist seeks to overcome both Positivism and Phenomenological ways.

Great book to get a quick intro about Philosophy of Science, Science & Theology.
I would recommend this if you're interested in Science and Theology.

--Deus Vult
Gottfried