The Wonder of the Universe: Hints of God in Our Fine-Tuned World

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Overview

Like detectives sleuthing out the greatest mystery of all, scientists over the centuries have uncovered clues about the structure and origins of the universe. The work of Galileo, Newton, Einstein, and a host of other tenacious researchers and thinkers reveals a cosmos of almost unimaginable wonder and beauty.

If we then honestly follow the evidence of science wherever it leads, where do we end up?

Karl Giberson takes us on a fascinating guided...

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More About This Book

Overview

Like detectives sleuthing out the greatest mystery of all, scientists over the centuries have uncovered clues about the structure and origins of the universe. The work of Galileo, Newton, Einstein, and a host of other tenacious researchers and thinkers reveals a cosmos of almost unimaginable wonder and beauty.

If we then honestly follow the evidence of science wherever it leads, where do we end up?

Karl Giberson takes us on a fascinating guided tour of planets and protons, galaxies and gamma rays. We discover that if gravity were slightly stronger, neutrons a tiny bit lighter, the size of our sun somewhat larger or a dozen other factors altered by fractions, there would be no life.

The author shows that for many observers, even those who do not embrace religious faith, all of this looks suspiciously like the expression of a grand plan--a cosmic architecture capable of both supporting life such as ours, and inspiring observers like us to seek out hints of a creator.

Join this cosmic expedition and discover the wonder of it all.

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Editorial Reviews

Leslie Wickman
"The Wonder of the Universe is written in a style easily accessible to a broad audience. Avoiding the extremes of too much science jargon or sidestepping the science altogether, Giberson explains his scientific arguments in terms and examples that engage both scientist and layperson alike. He weaves a rich tapestry of the history of science, scientific discoveries and the many great--albeit sometimes quirky--minds of groundbreaking scientists themselves. Observing the remarkable lawful order and suitability for life we find in our universe, Giberson explores the fine-tuning 'problem' and cautions his readers not to simplify the debate between the competing explanations of the multiverse hypothesis versus purposeful design as merely science versus religion. He comments on the shortcomings of science when it comes to questions of meaning and purpose, and asserts that while evidence for fine-tuning in nature does not prove God's existence, it 'fits comfortably, supportively and logically' within a belief system holding God as Creator. This book is a very well-written, thought-provoking and enjoyable read."
Dorothy Boorse
"Giberson lays out the case that the universe is 'wonderful, surprising and provocatively friendly to life' in an appealing and readable way. This book will be a welcome addition to the library of books on science and faith, one in which the reader is encouraged to see scientific advances as 'encouragements to faith, rather than challenges.' Individuals, churches and student groups will find it helpful."
Randy Isaac
"In The Wonder of the Universe, Karl Giberson takes us on a delightful journey through space and time, offering enlightening insights into key historical events that shaped our understanding of the universe with glimpses of the wonder and glory of our Creator."
Edward B. Davis
"Readers looking for a clear, accurate and interesting account of modern cosmology and the religious questions it raises should buy this book."
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Product Details

  • ISBN-13: 9780830838196
  • Publisher: InterVarsity Press
  • Publication date: 2/14/2012
  • Pages: 216
  • Sales rank: 706,580
  • Product dimensions: 6.00 (w) x 8.90 (h) x 0.80 (d)

Meet the Author

Karl W. Giberson (Ph.D.) is an internationally known scholar whose work has been translated into several languages. He is a popular speaker and writer, and directs the Science & Religion writing workshop at Gordon College. Giberson has published over two hundred articles, reviews and essays and written nine books, including Saving Darwin and, with Francis Collins, The Language of Science and Faith. He lives on the web at www.karlgiberson.com.
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Table of Contents

Introduction: Following the evidence where it leads
1. Learning to Read the Book of Nature: the beginning of science
2. A Wonderful World: Science learns to walk
3. Learning to see the Universe: Science learns to run
4. The Wonder of the Cosmos: How the Universe got a history
5. Living on a Goldilocks Planet: Why the earth is such a great place to live
6. Monkeying with the Physics: The Wonder of the World within the World
Interlude: Crossing the Uncertain Bridge: Can we get from science to religion?”
7. Is this the “Best of all Possible Worlds?” The Design of Design Arguments
8. Following the Evidence: Is There Purpose in the Universe?”
9. Cautious Optimism: The real scoop on the fine-tuning of the universe
10. It's a Wonderful World
Acknowledgements
Bibliography
Notes
Index
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