1st Edition

Toward a Theology of Scientific Endeavour The Descent of Science

By Christopher B. Kaiser Copyright 2007

    Foundations of science are specific conditions of the cosmos, of human intelligence, of cultural beliefs, and of technological structures that make the pursuit of modern science possible. Each of the four foundations of scientific endeavour can be studied as a topic on its own. The concurrent study of all four together reveals several tensions and interconnections among them that point the way to a greater unification of faith and science. This book explores four foundations of scientific endeavour and investigates some of the paradoxes each of them raises. Kaiser shows that the resolution of these paradoxes inevitably leads us into theological discourse and raises new challenges for theological endeavour. In order to address these challenges, Kaiser draws on the wider resources of the Judeo-Christian tradition and argues for a refocusing of contemporary theology from the perspective of natural science.

    Contents: Introduction: 4 foundations of scientific endeavour; Cosmic foundation: the challenge of a lawful universe; Anthropological foundation: the paradox of science-fostering intelligence; Cultural foundation: the challenge of science-fostering beliefs; Societal foundation: the paradox of science-fostering social systems; Foundations of scientific endeavour and the unity of knowledge; Bibliography; Indexes.

    Biography

    Christopher B. Kaiser is Professor of Historical and Systematic Theology at the Western Theological Seminary, USA.

    ’This is a scholarly work appropriate for the author's peers in academia but would also appeal to anyone who in interested in science and likes to ponder deep philosophical or religious questions. The interested reader is likely to agree that the author has correctly identified the foundations of scientific endeavor and is also likely to be prompted to give deep thought to questions suggested in the book...’ Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith ’Kaiser argues thoughtfully and draws some fascinating, inter-disciplinary connections.’ Theological Book Review