The Origin of Humanity and Evolution

What are humans and how did we arise? The story of human evolution seems to contradict with the old story in Scripture of Adam and Eve. Can these sacred and natural histories be held together? Much conflict swirls around this question. But our best science tells us that Adam and Eve, if they were real people, would have been genealogical ancestors of us all. This recent advance in scientific understanding is stimulating a productive conversation between scientists, theologians, exegetes, and philosophers. We are sorting out the image of God and the Fall, considering together the grand question of what it means to be human. At the crossroads of this lively exchange, the philosopher Loke courageously explores a new range of possibilities, delineating the range that makes most theological sense to him. Sure to surprise many, even the concerns of many anti-evolutionists, including a literal reading of Scripture, can be attended while affirming evolution. Whether we agree or disagree with the particulars, Loke's contribution is undeniably important; this book is a milestone in the larger conversation. -- S. Joshua Swamidass, author of The Genealogical Adam and Eve, and Associate Professor of Laboratory and Genomic Medicine, Washington University, USA Just what does it mean to reconcile Adam with evolution? Evangelical Christians have become deeply troubled by this question, and although there have been many answers, many falter for lack of deep-level engagement with all of the relevant philosophical, historical, theological and hermeneutical areas, not to mention scientific. Loke is one evangelical who is equipped to tackle these diverse problems with skill. For those who worry about Genesis and science, Loke's study provides clarity and ingenuity. -- Mark Harris, University of Edinburgh, UK