Here are five remarkable books that blend enlightened science and spirituality.
The Faith of a Physicist by John C. Polkinghorne 1994 biography
Published more than 20 years ago in 1994, John C. Polkinghorne’s biography is also a revolutionary work of literature that explores rational grounds that both scientists and religious experts share. Himself, a particle scientist and an Anglican priest, Polkinghorne provides readers a front-row seat of both an amazing spiritual journey and intellectual discovery. It is an amazing reading experience that every theologian and man of logic should read. John C. Polkinghorne’s The Faith of a Physicist: Reflections of a Bottom-Up Thinker is based on his 1993 Gifford Lectures. These lectures are meant for scientists, theologians, religious thinkers, and even atheists.
From Science to Spirituality by Neil C. Griffen
From Science to Spirituality is a meticulously researched work by Neil C. Griffen. Griffen is a medium, spiritual healer, and holds a Ph.D. in Physics. In this book, he demonstrates to us that religion and science are not at odds with each other. Griffen notes that they are ideas that must be merged in order to further understand the workings of the universe. Griffen highlights the facts that support the truth that scientific insights can be used to analyze spiritual issues, from the topic of evolution to the existence of one God. From Science to Spirituality aims to guide readers, whether they are into science or more of a spiritual quest, in answering many of life’s questions and mysteries through the process of questioning what is traditional and what is preconceived. Griffen’s work seeks to enlighten science and religious faith, and present to readers as two tolerant concepts that can work together for the betterment of humanity.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Aside from his fantasy fiction novels, C.S. Lewis also published non-fiction works about his faith. One of them is Mere Christianity. It is a 1952 theological book based on a series of BBC radio talks aired between 1941 and 1944. At that time, Lewis was at Oxford during the Second World War. Many viewed the book as a classic of Christian apologetics. The texts are a compilation of the transcripts of the broadcasts previously printed as pamphlets. These broadcasts were: The Case for Christianity (Broadcast Talks in the UK) (1942), Christian Behaviour (1943), and Beyond Personality (1944). In Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis discussed the tenets of the Christian faith as well as the Laws of Nature. While modern books about faith and science have tackled more intense subjects. At the time of its publication, C.S. Lewis provided enlightenment and influence in today’s discussion.
The Language of God by Francis S. Collins 2006 biography/dissertation
This 2006 best-selling and award-winning biography by Francis S. Collins is a very quintessential work that has provided definitive statements for the integration of faith and logic. Much like C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, The Language of God is a work that successfully demonstrates not only the power of faith but equally more important is the idea that we can be men of faith and still be men of logic and reason. Collins breaks the barrier that both religion and science have built-in attempt to discredit each other. The Language of God, also a dissertation by Collins, provides insightful views from the author’s personal stories. Truly, it is a modern book for modern readers but with the wisdom of past authors who have reconciled faith and reason.
The Merging of Two Worlds by Roy E. Bourque
The Merging of Two Worlds: The Convergence of Scientific and Religious Thought is a very interesting merger of science and religion by Roy E. Bourque. Published almost a decade ago in 2011, Bourque’s discussed the use of symbols and how its misinterpretations have hindered science and religion from working together. Roy E. Bourque argues that once these misconceptions are discovered, new insights will lead us to the evolution of human consciousness. He cites the example of the Mayan calendar and its apparent connection to the end-of-time prophecy. Bourque also highlights the importance of understanding symbols and mathematical models as they could help us unlock hidden truths and wisdom.