Creation through Wisdom: Theology and the New Biology
Overview
This volume offers a new theology of nature based on wisdom Christology. The author argues that an exaggerated emphasis on mere information has deprived modern science of its capacity to respond adequately to the moral dilemmas resulting from our increased power over nature. Dr. Deane-Drummond proposes a theology of creation that is in tune with recent developments in biological science, including genetics and ecology, and points to a new ethical approach to developments in biological science.
Clearly and accessibly written for those without a science background, this is a truly multi-disciplinary study, drawing on Christian theology, biological science, feminism, biblical studies, philosophy, ethics and sociology.
- Defends a Trinitarian view of Wisdom
- Examines Christian Theology in light of scientific advancements
- Carefully considers the pros and cons of the new biology
Top Highlights
“For Aquinas wisdom is one of the intellectual virtues. Reason is both speculative and practical. The three virtues of speculative reason are wisdom, scientia and understanding. The two virtues of practical reason are prudence and art. Scientia is the comprehension of the causes of things and the relationship between them, while understanding means grasping first principles. Wisdom is the understanding of the fundamental causes of everything and their relationship to everything else. It informs both speculative and practical reason. For Aquinas the fundamental cause is God, so wisdom is ultimately knowledge of God’s nature and actions.” (Page 99)
“The scope of the wisdom literature always includes the Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and the Book of Job. Most scholars also include the Apocryphal books such as the Wisdom of Solomon and Ecclesiasticus or Ben Sira. Others extend the net to the Pseudepigraphal literature such as the Book of Enoch.” (Page 16)
“Michael Polanyi is one philosopher of science who was quite ready to admit that science is not the neutral, objective and sterile activity it is often portrayed to be. He suggested that all our knowledge comes though commitment that is highly personal.20 He recognised the split between critical lucidity and ‘intense moral consciousness’.21 He believed that eternal purpose cannot be found in science and admired the pattern of thinking in Augustine, which put faith before reason.” (Page 11)
“The cross is certainly the vulnerable love of God, but it is more than this as well. As Paul’s letter to the Corinthians shows, the cross challenges all human wisdom and forces us to reconsider our own futures in its light.” (Page 58)
This major work provides a convincing case for the reconsideration of the wisdom of God as such a resource. . . It is a theologically significant contribution.
—Dr. Arthur Peacocke, Exeter College, Oxford
Deane-Drummond argues persuasively for a Trinitarian view of Wisdom that gives a much needed initiative to the voice of religion in discussions of such wide-ranging topics as ecology, biogenetics, and the future of the universe.
—Professor Robert John Russell, The Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences, Berkley
- Title: Creation Through Wisdom: Theology and the New Biology
- Author: Celia Deane-Drummond
- Publisher: T&T Clark
- Publication Date: 2000
- Pages: 272