When Science Meets Religion: Enemies, Strangers, or Partners?

For centuries, scientists, theologians, and the general public have debated the question: what impact should scientific discoveries have on religion? The argument has been so heated at times that some scientists, like Galileo, were forced to recant their conclusions by Church authorities.

In When Science Meets Religion, nuclear physicist and theologian Ian Barbour presents a clear, contemporary introduction to the essential issues, ideas, and solutions in the relationship between religion and science. Barbour, who was awarded the 1999 Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion for his pioneering role in advancing the study of religion and science, addresses creation and the Big Bang, quantum physics and ultimate reality, evolution and continuing creation, and many other fascinating topics that cross the boundary between laboratory and pulpit.

Ian Barbour is Professor Emeritus of Physics and Religion at Carleton College, Northfield, Minn. He was named the winner of 1999 Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion for his pioneering role in establishing the study of religion and science. He donated the $1.42 million prize to the Berkeley Center for the Study of Theology and Science and to Carleton College. He is the author of many books, including Religion and Science, Ethics in an Age of Technology, and Religion in an Age of Science.

“No surer and fairer guide to the proliferating literature on the relation of science and religion can be found than Ian Barbour.”

— Arthur Peacocke, Oxford University, author of From DNA to Dean: Reflections & Explorations of a Priest—Scientist