Religion after Science: The Cultural Consequences of Religious Immaturity

Description

In this provocative work, J. L. Schellenberg addresses those who, influenced by science, take a negative view of religion, thinking of it as outmoded if not decadent. He promotes the view that transcendently oriented religion is developmentally immature, showing the consilience of scientific thinking about deep time with his view. From this unique perspective, he responds to a number of influential cultural factors commonly thought to spell ill for religion, showing the changes - changes favorable to religion - that are now called for in how we understand them and their proper impact. Finally, he provides a defense for a new and attractive religious humanism that benefits from, rather than being hindered by, religious immaturity. In Schellenberg's view, religion can and should become a human project as monumental as science.

J. L. Schellenberg is Professor of Philosophy at Mount Saint Vincent University, Nova Scotia. His work was honored by a special issue of the Cambridge journal Religious Studies in 2013.

'A lovely book. Schellenberg makes the case that, contrary to common opinion, religion is still in a primitive stage, far from being baroquely overdeveloped. Only with time can it come into its own. As an old-fashioned non-believer, I am excited by the tussle we shall have, until one stands triumphant over the other. Read it yourself and join in the fun.' Michael Ruse, Lucyle T. Werkmeister Professor of Philosophy, Florida State University 'Religion after Science challenges the stance held by evangelicals and atheists alike, who often assume they know the 'last word' on religious matters. What if they are both wrong, asks Schellenberg, and these are actually humankind's first, tentative words? Schellenberg is a prophet unlike any that have come before. In this highly original book, he demonstrates how the simple idea that deep time extends into the future, as well as the past, has startling consequences for today's religious debates, with the capacity to transform all of our certainties and doubts alike.' Mark Harris, University of Edinburgh 'An impressively thoughtful and stimulating reflection on the possible future of religion, which deserves the attention of humanists and religious believers alike.' Keith Ward, Canon Professor, Christ Church Oxford