Despite the differences of their subject matter, science and theology have a cousinly relationship, John Polkinghorne contends in his latest thought-provoking book. From his unique perspective as both theoretical physicist and Anglican priest, Polkinghorne considers aspects of quantum physics and theology and demonstrates that the two truth-seeking enterprises are engaged in analogous rational techniques of inquiry. His exploration of the deep connections between science and theology shows with new clarity a common kinship in the search for truth. The author identifies and explores key similarities in quantum physics and Christology. Among the many parallels he identifies are patterns of historical development in quantum physics and in Christology; wrestling with perplexities such as quantum interpretation and the problem of evil; and the drive for an overarching view in the Grand Unified Theories of physics and in Trinitarian theology. Both theology and science are propelled by a desire to understand the world through experienced reality, and Polkinghorne explains that their viewpoints are by no means mutually exclusive.

本書の真髄は、相反すると目される「量子物理学」と「キリスト教神学」という二つの真理探究を、類比的な理性によって統合しようとする大胆な試みにあります。物理学者であり聖職者でもある著者の稀有な視点が、数式の背後にある論理と信仰の真理の間に美しい「親族関係」を見出していく過程は、知的な興奮に満ちています。 量子解釈の混迷や統一理論への渇望といった共通項を掘り下げる筆致は、世界の根源を理解しようとする人間の普遍的な情熱を浮き彫りにします。科学と宗教が互いを補完し合う豊饒な認識の地平は、真実を追い求めることの真の意味を提示し、私たちの既存のパラダイムを鮮やかに塗り替えてくれるでしょう。