Description
Book SynopsisQuantum Leap uses key events in the life of Polkinghorne to introduce the central ideas that make science and religion such a fascinating field of investigation. Sir John Polkinghorne is a British particle physicist who, after 25 years of research and discovery in academia, resigned his post to become an Anglican priest and theologian. He was a professor of mathematical physics at Cambridge University, and was elected to the Royal Society in 1974. As a physicist he participated in the research that led to the discovery of the quark, the smallest known particle. This cheerful biography-cum-appraisal of his life and work uses Polkinghorne's story to approach some of the most important questions: a scientist's view of God; why we pray, and what we expect; does the universe have a point?; moral and scientific laws; what happens next?
Trade ReviewI cannot think of a more trustworthy guide than John Polkinghorne, who holds up both ends of the science/faith debate.A" - Philip Yancey The revealing story of an influential Christian and brilliant physicist whose life trajectory has been astonishingly unexpected. Written with sensitivity and clarity, this extraordinary spiritual biography illuminates one of the leading figures in our contemporary science-and-religion dialogue.A" - Dr. Owen Gingerich, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, and author of God's Universe "A very accessible guide to the life and thought of this leading thinker. Immensely worthwhile reading for anyone concerned with the relation of faith and science." - Alister E. McGrath, Professor of Theology, Ministry and Education, King's College, London "An interesting and perceptive study of the life of a great and thoughtful person, who emphasized the relation between science and religion." - Charles Townes, winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics, and Professor of Physics, University of California
Table of ContentsContents
Prologue 6
Chapter One: Intellectual Suicide 9
Chapter Two: Room for Reality 35
Chapter Three: Droplets of Grace 63
Chapter Four: Regime Change 81
Chapter Five: Here and There 100
Chapter Six: Law and Order 121
Chapter Seven: Life after Life 136
Chapter Eight: In Particular 157
Conclusion: Icon 178
Epilogue 182
Acknowledgments 186
Notes 187
