From Cells to Souls and Beyond

A sophisticated set of essays bringing scientists and theologians together to consider a range of interpretations of human nature and representing, biological and medical sciences, psychiatry, psychology, genetics, philosophy, theology and biblical scholarship. Central to the concerns raised are developments in genetics and neuroscience, which raise ethical and religious questions such as: would a cloned individual have their own distinct identity? When do we become and when do we cease to be persons? Can there ever be a real freedom of choice? What is the relationship between spiritual experience and brain processes? Do genes play a role in religion and values? How do we evaluate Christian visions? What can Christianity offer in terms of an interpretation of personhood? The editor then brings the strands together in the last piece, noting the centrality of personal agency, the importance of relatedness, and the emphasis on embodied spirituality. An important volume for anyone considering the deeper questions of human identity posed by science and philosophy.