AAAS Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion

Thematic Areas: Evolution: Perspectives

WRESTLING WITH THE DIVINE: GOD, DARWIN & EVOLUTION
Denis O. Lamoureux
St. Joseph’s College, University of Alberta

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Abstract: Regrettably, a modern cultural myth has arisen that paints a dark and sinister picture of Charles Darwin and the religious implications of his theory of evolution. Many see him as one of the apostles of unbelief. However, the primary historical literature reveals that Darwin was thinking theologically throughout his career and that his reflections were sophisticated. In particular, he dealt with the religious themes of design in nature, the problem of pain, and Divine sovereignty over the world. Though Darwin certainly wrestled with the religious implications of his evolutionary theory, he never completely lost belief in God to embrace atheism.

Biography: Denis O. Lamoureux is an assistant professor of science and religion at St. Joseph’s College, University of Alberta. His appointment is the first Canadian tenure-track position in this newly developing discipline. He holds three earned doctoral degrees–dentistry, theology, and biology. Web-page: www.ualberta.ca/~dlamoure