J. C. Polkinghorne

questions to science and religion

Quarks, chaos & Christianity

From the vantage point of eighty years, a highly regarded scientist and theologian surveys the full spectrum of critical issues between science and theology

Science and Religion in Quest of Truth

An attempt to apply scientific habits of thought to the core of Christian belief, and to examine in turn the central tenets of the creeds in the light of a thoroughly modern world-view. The result is an intellectual presentation of orthodox Christianity.

Theological Reflections of a Bottom-up Thinker

Science and Christian Belief

Despite the differences of their subject matter, science and theology have a cousinly relationship, John Polkinghorne contends in his latest thought-provoking book. From his unique perspective as both theoretical physicist and Anglican priest, Polkinghorne considers aspects of quantum physics and theology and demonstrates that the two truth-seeking enterprises are engaged in analogous rational techniques of inquiry. His exploration of the deep connections between science and theology shows with new clarity a common kinship in the search for truth. The author identifies and explores key similarities in quantum physics and Christology. Among the many parallels he identifies are patterns of historical development in quantum physics and in Christology; wrestling with perplexities such as quantum interpretation and the problem of evil; and the drive for an overarching view in the Grand Unified Theories of physics and in Trinitarian theology. Both theology and science are propelled by a desire to understand the world through experienced reality, and Polkinghorne explains that their viewpoints are by no means mutually exclusive.

An Unexpected Kinship

Quantum Physics and Theology

In paperback for the first time, this compact volume presents quantum mechanics for the general reader. It offers a lucid description of the intellectual challenges and disagreements in the study of the behavior of atomic and sub-atomic particles--a field that has completely changed our view of the physical world, but that is still the subject of unresolved debate about its own fundamental interpretation. The work is accessible to those with no background in higher mathematics, but will also interest readers who have a more specialized knowledge of scientific topics. The author has spent most of his working life as a theoretical elementary particle physicist and from 1968 to 1979 was Professor of Mathematical Physics at the University of Cambridge. In 1979 he resigned to train for the ministry of the Church of England, and he is now an ordained priest. Here he describes a theory that has been spectacularly successful in predicting the behavior of objects the size of atoms and smaller but that has aroused conflicting views about the nature of reality and the degree of independence between the world around us and ourselves as observers.

The Quantum World

John Polkinghorne

"Eminent scientist and theologian John Polkinghorne offers an accessible yet authoritative introduction to the stimulating field of science and religion. After surveying their volatile historical relationship, he leads the reader through the whole array of questions that arise at the intersection of the scientific and religious quests." "Polkinghorne provides a marvellously clear overview of the major elements of current science (including quantum theory, chaos theory, time and cosmology). He offers a concise outline of the character of religion, and shows their joint potential to illumine some of the thorniest issues in theology today: creation, the nature of knowledge, human and divine identity and agency. He brings the reader to complex ideas so gently and persuasively that at each turn one is inspired to follow the next step of the argument."--Jacket.

An Introduction

Science and Theology

In these refreshingly unconventional meditations, scientist John Polkinghorne connects the perspectives of science and religion in honest and thoughtful reflections for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Giving new meaning to the penitence of Advent and the hope of the Christian faith, he considers God's ultimate purposes along with scientific knowledge of the fate of the universe. Complete with Scriptural references and prayers,Living With Hopeencourages Christians to think about the beginning and end of the world and to come to discover what it means to truly affirm God's purpose in creation.

J. C. Polkinghorne

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