With evidence from contemporary astrophysics, biology, anthropology, and evolutionary psychology, "Thank God for Evolution" lays out a compelling argument for how religion and science can be mutually enriching forces. Illustrations throughout.

Reviews

Since 2002, ordained United Church of Christ minister Dowd and his wife, science writer Connie Barlow, have traveled the country celebrating evolution as a grand epic story with a host of psychological and moral implications for shaping contemporary life. As narrator, Dowd projects an earnest next-door neighbor teaching style that earns a measure of patience and forgiveness when he undertakes divergent metaphors and analogies that may leave listeners scratching their heads at times. Dowd's talking points offer a potpourri of scientific and theological insights that remain generally engaging, though not necessarily stirring. He reaches the peak of his effectiveness when he provides specific calls to actions for his audience to meld "flat-Earth" Christianity and "evolutionary" Christianity in both their personal problem-solving and in larger global challenges. These nuggets make the lengthy journey worthwhile, at least for those in the fields of science and religion wanting to foster new areas for dialogue beyond the current culture wars. A Viking hardcover. (Sept.) Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

Unfortunately, this self-read title by "evolutionary evangelist" Dowd is not a cogent collection of his core ideas but, rather, a collection of rambling, meaningless statements interspersed with far too many self-aggrandizing anecdotes about how he and his wife have impacted others' lives. This abridged audio recording contains few facts--not even a proper description of the theory of evolution. Those attempting to understand or even reconcile scientific and religious beliefs should look elsewhere. Not recommended. [Audio clip available through us.penguingroup.com; the Council Oak hc was recommended "for larger libraries," LJ 11/15/07; watch the book trailer at thankgodforevolution.com/trailer.--Ed.]--I. Pour-El, Des Moines Area Technical Coll., Boone, IA Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.

"Dowd presents evolution as a sacred epic of emerging complexity."
-"The New York Times"

"Dowd masterfully unites rationality and spirituality in a world view that celebrates the mysteries of existence... A powerful book!"
-Craig Mello, winner of the 2006 Nobel Prize in Physiology/Medicine