Scientific Theology: Nature

Alister McGrath is Professor of Historical Theology at Oxford University, UK, and the first Director of the newly-established Oxford Centre for Evangelism and Apologetics. He holds the Oxford degrees of Doctor of Divinity for his work on historical and systematic theology, and Doctor of Philosophy for his work on molecular biophysics.

• Part One: Prolegomena1. The Legitimacy of a Scientific Theology2. The Approach to be AdoptedPart Two: Nature1. The Construction of Nature2. The Christian Doctrine of Creation3. Implications of a Christian Doctrine of Creation4. The Purpose and Place of Natural TheologyMoving On: Anticipating an Engagement with RealityBibliographyIndex

McGrath's book attempts to identify and resolve some primary issues at the centre not only of the conversation between theology and the natural sciences but also of the Christian doctrine of creation.  This bold and wide-ranging theolgical essay on nature and the knowledge of nature should provoke serious and sustained debate."  John Webster   "Professor McGrath explores a difficulty that follows from the widely held view that "nature", as with "culture", is a social construct.  The prlgem is that there can then be no neutral concep of "nature" to servce as the basis of an autonomous and effective apologia.   Taking his inspiration from Thomas Torrance's understanding of Karl Barth, he contends that there can be a defensible natural theology within the scope and framework of a revealed knowedge of god.  Where "nature" is already read as a work of creation it takes on meanings that may be consonant with the affirmation of an order that is ultimately presupposed in the sciences.  This is a serious arguement that commands attention."  John Hedley Brooke