Faithful to God, Science

I have posted several times about the relationship between science and religion. The LA Times has an article Faithful to God, Science about Dr. Francis Collins's conversion experience.

A scientist and a believer. A born-again Christian and director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, a federal project with 550 employees, a $480 million annual budget and a mandate to explore every twist of the DNA that makes us who we are. The synthesis has brought Collins much joy and intellectual satisfaction. But he's frustrated, too, that he's perceived as such an oddity.

In his new book, "The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief," Collins expresses his dismay at what he calls "the chasm between science and faith."

Evolution versus intelligent design. Darwin versus God. Embryonic stem-cell research versus the sanctity of human life.

"We act as though there's a battle going on," Collins said. "An irreconcilable conflict."

He feels no such conflict. He believes in evolution and in the resurrection. He wears a silver ring with a raised cross and works at a dining-room table painted with the double-helix of DNA.

I may have to check out his book.

Comments

[Denis Hancock]

I have his book. It's worth the cover price.

Apart from some history of the Human genome Project, and some discussion of Richard Dawkins' views, it seems to be mostly personal reflections.

[Michael Kruse]

Thanks Denis. I would think his personal reflections would be very interesting.

[Ted Gossard]

It was either him, or someone like him I heard recently on "Talk of the Nation: Science Friday", I believe. Was good. And refreshing to hear.

[Dana Ames]

There's an extended interview at the NPR "Religion and Ethics Newsweekly" site. God bless him. The book's on my list- have to get through what's already on my desk first :)

Dana

[Michael Kruse]

"...have to get through what's already on my desk first."

I used to have a desk once. I think it is still here somewhere, underneath the books. :)

Thanks for the heads up on the article.