1) Asher, Robert J.. Evolution and Belief: Confessions of a Religious Paleontologist. 2012. Cambridge University Press. Hardbound: 300 pages. Price: $24.99 U.S.
SUMMARY: Can a scientist believe in God? Does the ongoing debate between some evolutionists and evangelicals show that the two sides are irreconcilable? As a paleontologist and a religious believer, Robert Asher constantly confronts the perceived conflict between his occupation and his faith. In the course of his scientific work, he has found that no other theory comes close to Darwin's as an explanation for our world's incredible biodiversity. Recounting discoveries in molecular biology, paleontology and development, Asher reveals the remarkable evidence in favor of Darwinian evolution. In outlining the scope of Darwin's idea, Asher shows how evolution describes the cause of biodiversity, rather than the agency behind it. He draws a line between superstition and religion, recognizing that atheism is not the inevitable conclusion of evolutionary theory. By liberating evolution from its misappropriated religious implications, Asher promotes a balanced awareness that contributes to our understanding of biology and Earth history.
RECOMMENDATION: For those with an interest in the evolution vs. creationism debate.
Er... since that's just the press release, have you actually read the book? If so, I'd be much more interested to hear your actual opinion and analysis of it. If not, how did you justify your recommendation?
ReplyDeleteI don't write reviews, just PREviews of new books.
ReplyDeleteI suppose that leaves us with question #2- how can you recommend it as a must have? How do you know it's not terribly written, poorly argued, boring, shallow, etc. if you haven't read it yourself?
ReplyDeleteI do read them enough to get the flavor of the book.
Delete