Christian Idea of God
A Philosophical Foundation for Faith
Christian Idea of God
A Philosophical Foundation for Faith
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Hardback
£75.00
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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 9781108419215
Number of Pages: 236
Published: 28/09/2017
Width: 15.8 cm
Height: 23.6 cm
In this book, eminent theologian Keith Ward takes a fresh look at the ancient philosophy of Idealism, connects it with findings in modern science, and shows that a combination of good science, good philosophy, and a passion for truth and goodness, can underpin religious faith. Going back to first principles, he argues for the Idealist view that all knowledge begins with experience. Critically examining the idealism of Plato, Kant, and Hegel, Ward shows how this philosophy is strengthened by a knowledge of modern physics, and how it can lead to a new and vivid presentation of Christian faith. A work of philosophical rigour that makes clear the rational nature of belief in God, this book challenges the easy assumptions of materialism and the relativity of truth that undermine both science and religion. Ward writes in an accessible and readable style that gives new life and practical usefulness to idealist philosophy.
Introduction; Part I. The Nature of Mind: 1. What personal idealism is; 2. Beginning from experience; 3. The unitary self; 4. The self as agent; 5. Inferential and interpretative hypotheses; 6. The objectivity of value; 7. Personal knowledge; Part II. External Mind: 8. The idea of ultimate mind; 9. The supreme informational principle; 10. Explaining the Universe; 11. Creation and evolution; 12. Is nature sacred? 13. Eternal mind; 14. Freedom and necessity; Part III. Supreme Good: 15. Morality and creativity; 16. Philokalia; 17. The world to come; 18. Moral demand and human fulfilment; 19. Judgment and compassion; 20. Kenosis and Theosis; 21. Divine causality; 22. Reason and revelation.
'Ward does not shrink from the big issues, and his engagement with the problem of suffering is especially challenging.' Church Times 'The Christian Idea of God, by preeminent theologian and Kant scholar Keith Ward, is an ambitious and surprisingly fast-paced exploration into cutting-edge possibilities for Christian philosophical theology in the light of remarkable recent developments in 21st century Western rationality.' William Greenway, Reading Religion 'Commendable ... is Ward's speculative humility. His articulation of his views is neither arrogant nor imperious, and the result is a book that invites the reader to join in the speculation.' F. G. Kirkpatrick, Choice 'Ward presents, in an accessible book aimed at the general public, a revisionary account of God and His place in the universe ... Evaluating whether Ward's theodicy is successful or attractive could prompt valuable discussion among students.' Fr. James Dominic Rooney, Religious Studies Review
