Thank God for Evolution

A Baptist minister expresses his views on the place of evolution in the Christian doctrine by abandoning a literal translation of the Bible. He proposes a position he calls "evolutionary Christianity," in which the fundamentals of Christianity remain intact but allow for the abundant evidence that the process of natural selection exists. Because of Dowd's extensive public speaking experience, he presents a masterful narration that achieves a comfortable pace and a conversational modulation that keeps the lilstener's attention level high. He breaks the stereotype of the traditional Baptist preacher by introducing science into his message and reaching out to those of all faiths--and no faith. A large audience of religious fundamentalists may find his view of evolution as a divine process refreshing and novel. J.A.H. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

October 27, 2008
Since 2002, ordained United Church of Christ minister Dowd and his wife, science writer Connie Barlow, have traveled the country celebrating evolution as a grand epic story with a host of psychological and moral implications for shaping contemporary life. As narrator, Dowd projects an earnest next-door neighbor teaching style that earns a measure of patience and forgiveness when he undertakes divergent metaphors and analogies that may leave listeners scratching their heads at times. Dowd’s talking points offer a potpourri of scientific and theological insights that remain generally engaging, though not necessarily stirring. He reaches the peak of his effectiveness when he provides specific calls to actions for his audience to meld “flat-Earth” Christianity and “evolutionary” Christianity in both their personal problem-solving and in larger global challenges. These nuggets make the lengthy journey worthwhile, at least for those in the fields of science and religion wanting to foster new areas for dialogue beyond the current culture wars. A Viking hardcover.

November 15, 2008
Unfortunately, this self-read title by "evolutionary evangelist" Dowd is not a cogent collection of his core ideas but, rather, a collection of rambling, meaningless statements interspersed with far too many self-aggrandizing anecdotes about how he and his wife have impacted others' lives. This abridged audio recording contains few factsnot even a proper description of the theory of evolution. Those attempting to understand or even reconcile scientific and religious beliefs should look elsewhere. Not recommended. [Audio clip available through us.penguingroup.com; the Council Oak hc was recommended "for larger libraries," "LJ" 11/15/07; watch the book trailer at thankgodforevolution.com/trailer.Ed.]I. Pour-El, Des Moines Area Technical Coll., Boone, IA

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