Review by Choice Review
Steane (Univ. of Oxford, UK) is a distinguished physicist, and in this volume he offers an alternative to views of the incompatibility of science and religion identified with David Hume and Richard Dawkins. Steane argues that science is a network of ideas, not a ladder in which ideas at one level render those at another level redundant. Thus, science is not the appropriate tool for addressing all issues, including, especially, the complex issues of personhood. Steane posits that "the universe is neither bad nor neutral but good," asserting only that this is "a reasonable position, and arguably more reasonable than others." In his exploration of the meaning and purpose of personhood, he finds theistic religion a meaningful instrument. That said, he is concerned not with affirming the existence of God but rather with understanding that this term stands for "that which is most profoundly real and objectively deserving of ... allegiance, whatever that may be." This volume's insightful and appealing consideration of the relationship of science and religion will appeal to thoughtful readers regardless of their position regarding this question. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty. --Samuel C. Pearson, emeritus, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
