Teilhard's Process Metaphysics
Ian Barbour
Ian Barbour
Quote:The writings of Teilhard de Chardin' can be read in a variety of ways: as evolutionary science, as poetry and mysticism, as natural theology, and as Christian theology. There is, however, one aspect of his thought to which little attention has been given, namely, his undeveloped process metaphysics, hich, I have suggested, plays a crucial role in his synthesis of scientific and religious ideas.2 In this paper I will explore some of Teilhard's metaphysical categories which reflect both evolutionary and biblical assumptions. Successive sections will be devoted to: (I) reality as temporal process,
(2) the within, (3) freedom and determinism, (4) continuing creation, (5) God and time, (6) the problem of evil, and (7) the future of the world.
'Historically, we may regard materialism as a system of dogma set up to combat orthodox dogma...Accordingly we find that, as ancient orthodoxies disintegrate, materialism more and more gives way to scepticism.'
- Bertrand Russell
- Bertrand Russell