EDITORIAL 

From the Editor

From: PSCF 45 (December 1993): 221

We preface this issue with Colin Russell's cogent editorial (above) on the importance of the history of science for those seeking to interpret the modern scientific enterprise from a Christian point of view.

Our first paper features biologist Raymond Grizzle's complementarian approach to relating theology and science. He chooses the "lightening rod" topic of creation/evolution to illustrate his method. We are warned against developing direct cross-category comparisons, e.g. the scientific concept of "stasis" with the theological description "special creation."

Korean solid state physicist Seung-Hun Yang then traces the tortured response of American evangelicals and Seventh-day Adventists to Willard Libby's development of radioactive dating in the late 1940's. Yang's story offers a latter-day example of settling a scientific question in theological terms.Dick Fischer offers the first paper in a two-part series which seeks to identify "historical Adam" based on current scientific information and the biblical record.

In our first Communication, Edwin Yamauchi provides archaeological and geological context for a number of representative Old Testament references to six metals important in the ancient world. Joseph E. Spradley concludes this section with a description of his experiences teaching science at four institutions in the Middle East and Africa. The success of these stints carried out over three decades of enormous social and political upheaval should encourage the next generation of sabbatical holders to continue the tradition represented by the Spradley family.

Two Essay Reviews lead the Book Review section. In the first review Mark A. Kalthoff examines Ronald L. Numbers's important new work The Creationists. Richard Bube then considers James E. Loder's and W. Jim Neidhardt's The Knight's Move. It is ironic that Neidhardt's work would appear just prior to his death in July, 1993. We will miss his valued contributions to Perspectives and the ASA, his wise counsel, and his engaging sense of humor which so often tempered the strains of intense discussion.

 J. W. Haas, Jr.
Gordon College
Wenham MA 01982