This trio of volumes contains essays that explore vital existential, moral, or metaphysical issues surrounding the relationship between the sciences and the world's religions.In Science and the World's Religions, experts with scientific and religious backgrounds explore vital existential or practical issues, drawing on whatever sciences are relevant and engaging at least two religious traditions. The multidisciplinary essays exhibit rigorous intellectual, scholarly thinking but are written to clearly communicate to educated adult lay readers. The first volume addresses questions about the origins and purpose of the cosmos and the human project. The second volume investigates the roles of religion and spirituality in human existence, considering issues ranging from the brain and religious experience to the human life cycle. The third volume tackles controversies in which both religion and science are stakeholders, showing how both can deepen understanding and enrich human experience. Together, these three books present readers with powerful tools that enable them to think through the challenge of integrating science with their religious beliefs and spiritual practices.

Series ForewordAcknowledgmentsIntroductionChapter 1. Science and Judaism/Christianity Dialogue on the Authority of Sacred Texts and LeadersNorbert M. Samuelson and J. Eugene ClayChapter 2. Religion and Fanaticism (Is Religion Dangerous?)James K. Wellman Jr.Chapter 3. Dying for an Idea: Voluntary Death, Afterlife Beliefs, and Their Role in the Quest for ImmortalityCharles A. Ziegler and Benson SalerChapter 4. Science and Religious Supremacy: Toward a Naturalist Theology of ReligionsF. LeRon ShultsChapter 5. Religious Experience, Personal and Impersonal Gods, and TeleologyNatasha Fredericks and Charles TaliaferroChapter 6. Religion and Biological Evolution: How Well Do They Fit?Wesley J. Wildman, John A. Darling, and Connor P. WoodChapter 7. EnnuitheismJoseph A. BulbuliaChapter 8. Religion and Magical Thinking: Is Religion a Delusion?Richard GriggChapter 9. Religion and the Ecosphere: Is Religion Eco-Friendly?Susan P. BrattonChapter 10. The Future of an Illusion: Cognitive TheoriesWilliam Sims BainbridgeAbout the Editors and ContributorsIndex