God, Chance and Purpose

Can God Have It Both Ways?

David J Bartholomew author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:21st Feb '08

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

This paperback is available in another edition too:

God, Chance and Purpose cover

The thesis of this book is that chance is an integral part of God's creation.

It is commonly thought that chance and purpose are in opposition to one another and that to admit chance into the equation is to banish God. The thesis of this book is that chance is neither unreal nor non-existent but an integral part of God's creation.Scientific accounts of existence give chance a central role. At the smallest level, quantum theory involves uncertainty and evolution is driven by chance and necessity. These ideas do not fit easily with theology in which chance has been seen as the enemy of purpose. One option is to argue, as proponents of Intelligent Design do, that chance is not real and can be replaced by the work of a Designer. Others adhere to a deterministic theology in which God is in total control. Neither of these views, it is argued, does justice to the complexity of nature or the greatness of God. The thesis of this book is that chance is neither unreal nor non-existent but an integral part of God's creation. This view is expounded, illustrated and defended by drawing on the resources of probability theory and numerous examples from the natural and social worlds.

'… provides theologians with important and necessary raw materials to be carefully used within their own areas of expertise.' European Society for the Study of Science and Theology
'Bartholomew, an Emeritus Professor of Statistics, presents a complex story line with exemplary clarity, arguing both against those who maintain that the likelihood of life, let alone humans, appearing by chance is so miniscule that there must be an intelligent designer, and against those who assume God must have determined every detail of His creation.' Theological Book Review
'… an insightful and helpful aid.' Peter H. Van Ness, Yale University School of Medicine

ISBN: 9780521707084

Dimensions: 216mm x 140mm x 13mm

Weight: 380g

272 pages