DESCRIPTION:

Historically, the conversation between theology and science has given rise to a series of perplexing questions regarding the nature and domain of both disciplines. In what ways is science "theological?" In what sense can theology be considered "empirical?" Must theology and science talk past each other when considering the problem of origins? Eschatology? Divine action? This course utilizes contemporary trends in Anglo-American philosophy to suggest that the relationship between science and theology can fruitfully be described in terms of mutual aesthetic training.

Many Christians today need help integrating scientific knowledge with their faith. Moreover, the church, especially in the West, is faced with preaching the gospel to a predominately scientific culture. The understanding of science provided here, along with knowledge of the current dialogue between science and theology, should help future church leaders with these integrative tasks.

The professor will lecture on relevant material in conjunction with interaction over assigned readings and small group discussion on related topics. The class will meet once weekly for three-hour sessions.

Kuhn, Thomas S. The Structures of Scientific Revolution. 2d enlarged ed. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1970.

Polkinghorne, John. Science and Theology: An Introduction. Minneapolis: Fortress/London: SPCK, 1998.

Worthing, M. W. God, Creation, and Contemporary Physics. Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress, 1996.

ONE of the following (in coordination with instructor approval):

Dembski, William A. and Michael J. Behe. Intelligent Design: The Bridge between Science and Theology. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1999.

Gilkey, Langdon. Maker of Heaven and Earth: The Christian Doctrine of Creation in Light of Modern Knowledge. Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 1985.

Haught, John F. God after Darwin: A Theology of Evolution. Boulder, CO: Westview Press, 1999.

Peacocke, Arthur. God and the New Biology. Gloucester, MA: Peter Smith, 1994.

Additional photocopied material.

Murphy, Nancey. Reconciling Theology and Science: A Radical Reformation Perspective. Kitchener, Ont.: Pandora Press/Scottdale, PA: Harold Press, 1997.

Polanyi, Michael. Personal Knowledge: Towards a Post-Critical Philosophy. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1974, reprint; original Garden City: Doubleday, 1966.

Pop quizzes on the reading and two papers, 10 pages each. The first paper is part of a group project on origins. The second is to be a research paper done under advisement of the instructor.

OT501 or OT508. It is also to the student's distinct advantage to have completed the historical and/or systematic theology sequence in order to best grasp the significance of course material.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in philosophical theology (PHIL).
Also meets interdisciplinary (IDPL) requirement for MACL (Integrative).