A Science and Religion Primer

The relationship between science and religion (SR) has often been portrayed as bellicose. Yet some scholars view the disciplines as allies that complement and buttress one another. Others consider them to be entirely discrete entities. Without a doubt, the interface of the two disciplines is complex and nuanced, and they have much to learn from one another.

Heidi Campbell and Heather Looy assembled A Science and Religion Primer to guide a respectful, intelligent conversation. This landmark work is simultaneously an encyclopedia, an annotated bibliography, and a survey. What's more, the stalwart advisory board for this singular project is made up of:

• Celia Deane-Drummond
• Nancey Murphy
• George F. R. Ellis
• Peter Harrison
• Holmes Rolston III
• Craig A. Boyd

Four substantive introductory essays--from Harrison (History and People in Science and Religion), Murphy (The Role of Philosophy in Religion-Science Dialogue), Deane-Drummond (Theology's Intersection with Science and Religion), and Rolston (Science and Technology in Light of Religion)--set the book's background. The second, and primary, section of the book provides an A-Z listing of entries dealing with a variety of philosophical, historical, scientific, and theological concepts, individuals, or events related to the SR dialogue. Each one is divided into three parts: a brief summary/definition of the concept, a key points and challenges section that identifies significant issues, and a "discussion partners" section that lists key related readings. A Science and Religion Primer is an indispensable source in its own right and a springboard for more in-depth research.

Heidi A. Campbell (PhD, University of Edinburgh) is assistant professor of communication at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She is the author of Exploring Religious Community Online, has written numerous articles and encyclopedia entries, and participated in the Sir John Templeton Oxford Seminars in Science and Christianity.

Heather Looy (PhD, McMaster University) is associate professor of psychology at The King's University College in Alberta, Canada. She specializes in biopsychology, participated in the Sir John Templeton Oxford Seminars in Science and Christianity, and is an active researcher and writer.