CSAP 629: Scientific Apologetics (2 units)

John Bloom, Professor of Physics, Academic Chair of M.A. in Science and Religion

Description

This course will survey the issues and ideas involved in the relationship between philosophy and the biblical worldview. Special emphasis will be given to scientific controversies that are used by skeptics to call Christianity into question.

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have:

Demonstrated the harmony between science and a biblical worldview.
Explained scientific controversies that supposedly undermine Christianity.

Course Format

During the Spring and Fall semesters, this course is conducted in 4-week blocks online. The professor oversees preliminary assignments, required readings, online class discussions, and follow-up research projects. Additional support materials will be available online.

Required Reading

Dembski, William. 1999. Intelligent Design: The Bridge Between Science and Theology. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity.
Gonzalez, Guillermo and Jay Richards. 2004. The Privileged Planet: How Our Place in the Cosmos is Designed for Discovery. Washington, DC: Regnery Publishing.
Newman, Robert C. and Herman J. Eckelmann. 1981. Genesis One and the Origin of the Earth. Revised ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House.
Ross, Hugh. 2001. The Creator and the Cosmos: How the Greatest Scientific Discoveries of the Century Reveal God. 3rd ed. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress.

Assignments

Weekly Discussion Questions (10%)
Reading and Study Questions (30%)
Online Participation (20%)
Final Exam (40%)

Prerequisites

None

Relation to Curriculum

M.A. Christian Apologetics elective

Final Examination

Yes