Paul's story illustrates the need to distinguish between scientific
findings and theories (what I meant by the admittedly slippery word
"evolution" above) and any philosophical extrapolations or metaphysical
baggage humans may have tied to the science. The negation of Christian
doctrine here comes not from the science, but from metaphysical notions
of what God "would not" do, and maybe other problems the more
theology-minded on this list could point out. Those so inclined can take
almost anything and (ab)use it to "negate" Christianity.
I answer with another example. Long ago, some decided that the success
of Newton's science eliminated the need for anything other than a
clockmaker God. They "revised" their theology accordingly, and ended up
in Deism. So here's an equivalent question: "Does Newtonian physics, if
true, negate Christianity?"
The abuse does not destroy the use.
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| Dr. Allan H. Harvey | aharvey@boulder.nist.gov |
| Physical and Chemical Properties Division | "Don't blame the |
| National Institute of Standards & Technology | government for what I |
| 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80303 | say, or vice versa." |
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