Evolution and theodicy: how (not) to do science and theology

Neil Messer

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Abstract

This article uses Christopher Southgate’s work and engagement with other scholars on the topic of evolutionary theodicy as a case study in the dialogue of science and Christian theology. A typology is outlined of ways in which the voices of science and the Christian tradition may be related in a science-theology dialogue, and examples of each position on the typology are given from the literature on evolution and natural evil. The main focus is on Southgate’s evolutionary theodicy and the alternative proposal by Neil Messer. By bringing these two accounts into dialogue, some key methodological issues are brought into focus, enabling some conclusions to be drawn about the range and limits of fruitful methodological possibilities for dialogues between science and Christian theology.
Original languageEnglish
JournalZygon: Journal of Religion and Science
Volume53
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 30 Aug 2018

Keywords

  • Creation
  • Christianity
  • evolution
  • evolutionary biology
  • natural evil
  • theology
  • Christopher Southgate.
  • 2020

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