It's About Time
Science meets Religion
by
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In their search for meaning people want answers to questions about God and science. They read books by Paul Davies, Ian Barbour and others, on science and religion and find a little understanding, but often no answers. This book, hopefully, provides answers to some of their questions, for example, about the apparent conflict between free will and predestination. The book is written for moderately well educated people who have either a fair grasp of religion or science, or both. However, those who have read the manuscript (who have no significant background in either science or religion) appear to have no difficulty with the concepts contained in it. The central notion is that there is no need for conflict between science and religion (specifically Christianity). Both are accepted as valid, and the implications of that assumption are pursued. Consequently, this book differs from nearly all others, which usually set religion against science, or seek to prove/disprove theology through scientific argument. The nexus between science and religion is seen to lie in a proper understanding the nature of time. Each chapter begins with a brief summary of its content, to point the way ahead. The first three chapters set the scene by dealing with relevant aspects of both science and religion. Considerable space is given to a scientific examination of time because it is critical that the reader understand that time can not exist on its own; that it is linked inextricably to matter and space; and is tied to the existence of the universe. The remaining chapters look at the implications of this connection on some central theological/religious notions, such as heaven and hell. It is assumed that the reader is generally familiar with these concepts, and so the emphasis is on developing them rather than explaining them in detail. Consequently, there is a certain amount of speculation that is not argued through in any great length. The intention is not to prove to the reader that what is canvassed must be true. Rather it is intended that the reader be led to contemplate various possibilities that seem to have been previously overlooked, or not much explored. Nevertheless, though these possibilities are often only outlined here, they have been thought through and can stand deeper examination. The final chapter tackles the implications that these ideas might have for each of us in our daily lives. The book could make a relevant contribution to the considerable popular debate that has been going on for some years now about the relationship between science and religion. Many of the relevant books on the matter are quoted from throughout the text. For follow up conversation refer to my blog bill.pearcy.org
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About the Book
It’s About Time represents author Bill Pearcy’s attempt to reconcile Christian theology with a more modern understanding of the universe. The slim volume represents a relatively sophisticated counterpoint to the idea that religious faith is antagonistic to scientific thinking. Among the challenges he tackles are: squaring divine creation with the Big Bang; the compatibility of God’s omnipotence with human free will; and reconciling eternal life with our understanding of the laws of the universe. He manages each topic with careful thought and clear articulation. His approach to free will, for example, shares fruitful similarities with philosophers such as Immanuel Kant, drawing important distinctions between the world as we experience it and the universe as it is in itself, as God must experience it. Not every discussion is as successful; his examination of God’s omnipotence is less adequate, ignoring critics who would claim that being all-powerful contains inherent contradictions. He has not written a comparative theology, but devoted nearly all his attention to core Christian beliefs. It’s About Time is not likely to convert many to a theology they don’t already share with the author, nor does it try to. Instead it provides insight into how one person can square belief in a modern scientific worldview with faith in the central tenets of Christianity. —Blueink Review For continuing thoughts refer to my blog bill.pearcy.org
About the Author
After graduating from the Royal Australian Air Force College with the Queen's Medal and the Sword of Honour, Bill completed a Science Degree at Melbourne University majoring in physics. He then saw active service in South East Asia flying F-86 (Sabre) aircraft. His later career involved flying Mirage aircraft and work in the Tactical Fighter Force (F/A 18) Project; as well as flying training and staff appointments in materiel, intelligence and security.
He retired early, as a Group Captain, in 1987 to set up the welfare/caring arm of the Anglican Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn (now Anglicare). At that time he was active in the Cursillo movement and became a qualified Prayer Minister (VMTC). Following his retirement from Anglicare he was appointed to the Vocations Advisory Committee for the Dioceses of Canberra and Goulburn, Bathurst, and Riverina. In 2002 he was made an Honorary Lay Canon of St Saviour's Cathedral, Goulburn. He has been a long time member of St James - Kippax parish in Canberra and is presently a Pastoral Care Visitor at nearby Calvary Hospital.
Bill has had an abiding interest in the practical outworking of science and religion for most of his life.