The certainties which underpinned Christian belief have crumbled in a world where science sets the standard of what is true. A rational case for belief must therefore be constructed out of uncertainties. Probability theory provides the tools for measuring and combining uncertainties and is thus the key to progress. This book examines four much debated topics where the logic of uncertain reference can be brought to bear. These are: miracles, the paranormal, God's existence, and the Bible. Given the great diversity of evidence, it is not surprising that opposite conclusions have been drawn by supposedly rational people. An assessment of the state of the argument from a probabilistic perspective is overdue. In this book Professor Bartholomew examines and refutes some of the more extravagant claims, evaluates the weight of some of the quantitative evidence, and provides an answer to the fundamental question: can a rational person be a Christian?
Reviews
Commended * The Tablet *
The author has a gift of clarity, and explains the principles of his investigation in a way that should be accessible to most readers. Professor Bartholomew considers in some detail and with great fairness such topics as miracles, the mind-brain relationship, the existence of God. * John Macquarrrie, Church Times *
The style of the book is careful and much of its detailed considerations conduct the reader over well-trodden ground. There are also some interesting side excursions. * The Times Education Supplement *
David Bartholomew offers a new perspective on the discussion of probability in relation to religious belief. Given its somewhat dry subject matter, it is pleasing to note the accessibility of Bartholomew's style. * Beverley Clack, Roehampton Institute, Theology *



Book Information
ISBN 9780198270140
Author David J. Bartholomew
Format Paperback
Page Count 300
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 400g
Dimensions(mm) 217mm * 138mm * 17mm