Quantum Leap

Overview

Using key events in the life of physicist Sir John Polkinghorne, this is an introduction to the central ideas that make the relationship between science and religion such a fascinating field of investigation

Using key events in the life of physicist Sir John Polkinghorne, this is an introduction to the central ideas that make the relationship between science and religion such a fascinating field of investigation An engaging biography-cum-appraisal of John Polkinghorne's life and work, this book uses his story to approach some of the most important questions in life, including How should a scientist view God? Why do we pray, and what do we expect from it? Does the universe have a point? and What happens after death? Sir John Polkinghorne is a British particle physicist who, after 25 years of research and discovery in academia, resigned his post to become an Anglican priest and theologian. Since then he has written more than 20 books exploring the relationship of science and theology. As a physicist, he participated in the research that led to the discovery of the quark, the smallest known particle. Here, both his religious and scientific beliefs are explored in full detail. A 2011 Crossings Book Club selection.

Reviews

"I cannot think of a more trustworthy guide than John Polkinghorne, who holds up both ends of the science/faith debate." —Philip Yancey, author, Disappointment with God

"The revealing story of an influential Christian and brilliant physicist whose life trajectory has been astonishingly unexpected. Written with sensitivity and clarity, this extraordinary spiritual biography illuminates one of the leading figures in our contemporary science-and-religion dialogue." —Dr. Owen Gingerich, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, and author, God's Universe

"An interesting and perceptive study of the life of a great and thoughtful person, who emphasized the relation between science and religion." —Charles Townes, winner, Nobel Prize for Physics, and professor of physics, University of California

"With Quantum Leap, the authors open doorways for the reader to engage in a real and sophisticated thought on meaningful life-and-death topics." —The [San Diego, CA] North County Times

"Giberson has a native understanding of how conservative Christians feel and think about evolution . . . he sketches an engaging historical narrative.  —Publishers Weekly on Saving Darwin

Author Biography

Dean Nelson is an award-winning journalist who writes for the New York Times as well as Sojourners and Christianity Today. He is author of 14 books, including God Hides in Plain Sight. He lives in San Diego, California. Karl Giberson, a physicist, is the director of the Forum on Faith and Science at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts. He has written more than 100 articles on science and religion, and seven books including The Language of Science and Faith and Saving Darwin: How to Be a Christian and Believe in Evolution.