John Polkinghorne

Nicholas Beale

How did the universe begin? Can God's existence be proven? Do humans matter more than animals? For many years people have sent the scientist-turned-priest John Polkinghorne these and other questions about science and belief. In question-and-answer format, Polkinghorne and his collaborator Nicholas Beale offer their highly informed opinions about some of the most frequently asked of these questions. Readers can follow their own paths through the book, selecting questions that interest them and looking at the additional material if they choose. This unique book will help Christians clarify their beliefs regarding difficult issues and better face challenges--from within and from others--to their faith.

Fifty-one Responses to Questions about God, Science, and Belief

Questions of Truth

The relationships between investors, directors and companies have never been so vital, or so confusing. Gone are the days when being a non-executive director (NED) meant an agreeable lunch and when CEOs wanted them to meet investors 'over my dead body'. Even the most admired companies can be engulfed in scandal and the NEDs find themselves having to drive through fundamental changes. The corporate environment is full of pitfalls for unwary boards. And there are plenty of headline stories of directors who have failed to measure up. Equally, a high quality board which has the confidence of the investors is a major strategic asset: making better decisions, attracting better people and allowing bolder strategies to succeed with investor backing. Nicholas Beale uses research gathered from leading FTSE 100 chairmen, directors, non-executive directors and investors to explore their changing roles. What emerges is a fascinating and instructive picture of constructive engagement; an approach that sees these companies (and the people behind them), each in their own way, address the challenges that are at the heart of global capitalism, and that have lead to the Higgs Review, Sarbanes-Oxley and other regulatory attempts to address corporate mismanagement. From discussions with over 100 leading practitioners, detailed studies of three leading companies, three leading investors and an extended case study on investor engagement at Royal Dutch Shell, the author draws a series of ideas and guidance for all of the parties involved. Sadly this book has come too late for the directors and investors of those companies that have crashed and burned, but all others who are, or aspire to be, directors or significant investors in listed companies should read this book, learn the lessons it has to offer and start adopting them in the organization(s) with which you work and in the portfolios you develop. For more information visit www.conseng.net

Nicholas Beale

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