I have a number of fine Christian friends. Some, in their efforts to maintain what they see as the integrity of the Bible, believe that the earth is around 6000 to 10,000 years old.
The support for this view lies in a very literal interpretation of the early chapters of Genesis. It is a view that is widespread among many (but certainly not all) evangelical believers.
In concert with this young earth view, is a belief that evolution has no scientific merit. Evolution is seen as a godless philosophical viewpoint. In addition, the most famous proponent (though not originator) of evolution, Charles Darwin, is portrayed as an atheist ... a man who abandoned his early belief in God.
The purpose of this blog is not to argue directly for or against evolution.
Rather it is to examine Darwin's theism (belief in one God) in the light of the most famous book he penned on evolution, The Origin of the Species.
Do do this, I will be examining a recent paper in the British Journal History for the History of Science.
The article is entitled: Charles Darwin use of theology in the Origin of Species.
The full references is:
Dilley, S. (2011). Charles Darwin's use of theology in the Origin of Species. The British Journal for the History of Science. doi:10.1017/S000708741100032X
