Science and the World's Religions

This trio of volumes contains essays that explore vital existential, moral, or metaphysical issues surrounding the relationship between the sciences and the world's religions. In Science and the World's Religions, experts with scientific and religious backgrounds explore vital existential or practical issues, drawing on whatever sciences are relevant and engaging at least two religious traditions. The multidisciplinary essays exhibit rigorous intellectual, scholarly thinking but are written to clearly communicate to educated adult lay readers. The first volume addresses questions about the origins and purpose of the cosmos and the human project. The second volume investigates the roles of religion and spirituality in human existence, considering issues ranging from the brain and religious experience to the human life cycle. The third volume tackles controversies in which both religion and science are stakeholders, showing how both can deepen understanding and enrich human experience. Together, these three books present readers with powerful tools that enable them to think through the challenge of integrating science with their religious beliefs and spiritual practices.

Patrick McNamara, PhD, is associate professor of neurology and psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and is director of the Evolutionary Neurobehavior Laboratory in the Department of Neurology at the BUSM and the VA New England Healthcare System.
Wesley J. Wildman, PhD, is professor of philosophy, theology, and ethics at Boston University and convener of the Graduate School's doctoral program in religion and science.

Series Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1. Science and Judaism/Christianity Dialogue on the Authority of Sacred Texts and Leaders
Norbert M. Samuelson and J. Eugene Clay
Chapter 2. Religion and Fanaticism (Is Religion Dangerous?)
James K. Wellman Jr.
Chapter 3. Dying for an Idea: Voluntary Death, Afterlife Beliefs, and Their Role in the Quest for Immortality
Charles A. Ziegler and Benson Saler
Chapter 4. Science and Religious Supremacy: Toward a Naturalist Theology of Religions
F. LeRon Shults
Chapter 5. Religious Experience, Personal and Impersonal Gods, and Teleology
Natasha Fredericks and Charles Taliaferro
Chapter 6. Religion and Biological Evolution: How Well Do They Fit?
Wesley J. Wildman, John A. Darling, and Connor P. Wood
Chapter 7. Ennuitheism
Joseph A. Bulbulia
Chapter 8. Religion and Magical Thinking: Is Religion a Delusion?
Richard Grigg
Chapter 9. Religion and the Ecosphere: Is Religion Eco-Friendly?
Susan P. Bratton
Chapter 10. The Future of an Illusion: Cognitive Theories
William Sims Bainbridge
About the Editors and Contributors
Index