3.3 Creationism or Evolution
lanny.wilson
CreationismorEvolution.docxGetting Started
This assignment will have you debate the possibilities for explaining existence in two ways, through creationism (revelation) or evolution (science). You will come to appreciate the place for each type of approach and discover which is primary to your understanding of existence and your sense of life values. This scenario is based on the distinction between what we believe in the Bible and what we know from science, found in Chapter 8 of the CPJ. Philosophers, along with theologians and scientists, have debated the validity of metaphysics based on either what we can believe to be true or what we can factually discover. Does one “know” something best by accepting it without question, or by proving it with evidence (or even both)? Which way is more reliable or true? This question goes right to the heart of determining whether there is one ultimate approach in ontology.
Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:
· Determine the difference between the value and use of the scientific method and the place of divine revelation.
· Devise a paradigm for your personal approach to reality.
Resources
· Textbook: A Christian Philosophical Journey
· A Standard Translation of the Bible as noted in the syllabus.
Instructions
NOTE: Feel free to use the Bible for answers about creationism, but make sure you are using it to support your logical analysis of something like God’s attributes. Remember, biblical statements are not meant to be factual proof, even though they may be true. In the same way, you may choose to view Darwinism (or any scientific alternative) as a theory or paradigm not yet proven to be 100% accurate (because scientific evidence continues to change over time). You may also want to try to do the synthesis step by coming up with your own new paradigm for these concepts (and your own illustration).
1. Review Chapter 8 of the text, A Christian Philosophical Journey (CPJ).
2. Navigate to the threaded discussion and respond to the following: Use the four-step course methodology of understanding, analysis, evaluation and application. Write a 150- to 200-word description (three to four paragraphs, or at least five observations) about the contrast between creationism and evolution. Explain the validity each type of approach (revelation or science), and the value of each.
a. How important is this debate right now, both in the halls of education and in the community of faith? Which will win out for the hearts and minds of future generations?
b. Which is more important to understand the truth of reality?
c. Can we integrate faith and evidence, or do we need to choose only between two extremes?
d. Are there other approaches to categorize this debate, for example, Kuhn, Hartshorne, or others? (Think about how Occam’s Razor applies to any of these approaches.)
