Ramified Natural Theology in Science and Religion: Moving Forward from Natural Theology

This book provides a new approach to natural theology that is in dialogue with science and the historical-critical study of the Bible. It argues that rational argument is needed to infer the existence of God from nature and the particular truth claims of the Christian faith from the Bible. Bayesian confirmation theory is used to evaluate competing hypotheses in both cases, building a case for the rationality of a Christian theist worldview.

Format: Hardback
Length: 233 pages
Publication date: 16 October 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book presents a novel approach to natural theology, engaging in a meaningful dialogue with both science and the critical study of the Bible. Traditionally, knowledge of God has been derived from two primary sources: nature and revelation. However, a strict division between these two realms cannot be upheld, as revelation cannot be fully embraced without a critical examination. Rational argument is essential to establish both the existence of God from nature and the specific truth claims of the Christian faith from the Bible. Consequently, a distinction arises between "bare natural theology" and "ramified natural theology."

The book commences by delving into the realm of bare natural theology, serving as a foundational framework for its subsequent exploration of ramified natural theology. Employing the principles of Bayesian confirmation theory, the book evaluates competing hypotheses in both cases, akin to the scientific evaluation of hypotheses based on empirical data. This methodical approach builds a compelling case for the rationality of a Christian theist worldview.

Addressing a range of issues related to science, theology, and revelation within a fresh framework, this book holds significant appeal to scholars engaged in the fields of Religion and Science, Natural Theology, Philosophy of Religion, Biblical Studies, Systematic Theology, and Science and Culture. Its multidisciplinary approach fosters a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of these disciplines and provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between faith and science.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367373191