Mind and Emergence

Bol

Provides introduction to the emergence theory. This work discusses whether a transcendent force is luring the natural world toward higher forms of existence, or whether basic forces in the natural world are producing ever more complex phenomena, including the life of the mind and the ideas of spirit and of God (immanent emergence). Strong claims have been made for emergence as a new paradigm for understanding science, consciousness, and religion. Tracing the past history and current definitions of the concept, Clayton assesses the case for emergent phenomena in the natural world and their significance for philosophy and theology. Complex emergent phenomena require irreducible levels of explanation in physics, chemistry and biology. This pattern of emergence suggests a new approach to the problem of consciousness, which is neither reducible to brain states nor proof of a mental substance or soul. Although emergence does not entail classical theism, it is compatible with a variety of religious positions. Clayton concludes with a defence of emergentist panentheism and a Christian constructive theology consistent with the new sciences of emergence.

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Pagina's: 252, Editie: Illustrated, Paperback, Oxford University Press