Applying well-informed critical thinking to questions raised by theologians and scientists alike, Collins examines the relevant biblical and Second Temple Jewish texts, to discover whether they really do support the traditional position. He also considers the biblical view of human uniqueness and dignity, and relates these to everyday moral and religious experience, asking whether these too are evidence. He concludes with a description of some sample scenarios for a scientific understanding of human origins. Extensive appendices examine how the material in Genesis relates to similar material from Mesopotamian myths.

Collins' goal is to enable readers to think through the issues for themselves. His analysis will strengthen confidence that the traditional Christian story equips us better than any alternatives to engage with life as it is actually encountered in the modern world.