1. From Physics to Theology
There are at least five ways or paths by which theoretical
physics can affect constructive theology; in the first four, physics acts as
data for theology. (1) Physical theories can act as data which place
constraints on theology. For example a theology of divine action should not
violate special relativity. (2) Physical theories can act as data either to be
explained by theology or as the basis for a theological constructive
argument. For example, t=0 in Big Bang cosmology may be incorporated within the
doctrine of creation ex nihilo. Such an explanation can serve to
confirm the theological theory, but the theological explanation should be
considered a part of theology and not of science. (3) Theories in physics,
after philosophical analysis, can act indirectly as data in theology. For
example, the philosophical contingency of the Big Bang universe can serve as
evidence for the existence of God. (4) Theories in physics can also act
indirectly as theological data when they are incorporated into a
fully-articulated philosophy of nature, such as temporality or non-separability
when incorporated in process philosophy. Finally, (5) theories in physics can
function heuristically in the theological context of discovery, by providing
conceptual, experiential, practical, moral, or aesthetic inspiration.
Contributed by: Dr. Robert Russell
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