From omega to alpha: A critical analysis of theistic evolution in the theology of Ted Peters
type: CreativeWork
description: Discourse between science and religion has evolved significantly over the last few centuries. The American and Lutheran theologian Ted Peters emerged as a key figure contributing substantially to this discourse. This study critically analyses Peters' theological position on theistic evolution, examining its internal consistency, logical coherence, integration of sources from science, theology, and Lutheran discourse, as well as its potential to advance debates. Using a qualitative research design, the study focuses on analysing the strengths and weaknesses of Peters' position on theistic evolution, in particular exploring his conceptual proposals addressing key challenges associated with the topic. These include his views on; 1) randomness in relation to divine purpose, 2) natural selection in relation to divine action, 3) natural suffering in relation to God's benevolence, and 4) emergence through evolution in relation to human uniqueness.
abstract: Discourse between science and religion has evolved significantly over the last few centuries. The American and Lutheran theologian Ted Peters emerged as a key figure contributing substantially to this discourse. This study critically analyses Peters' theological position on theistic evolution, examining its internal consistency, logical coherence, integration of sources from science, theology, and Lutheran discourse, as well as its potential to advance debates. Using a qualitative research design, the study focuses on analysing the strengths and weaknesses of Peters' position on theistic evolution, in particular exploring his conceptual proposals addressing key challenges associated with the topic. These include his views on; 1) randomness in relation to divine purpose, 2) natural selection in relation to divine action, 3) natural suffering in relation to God's benevolence, and 4) emergence through evolution in relation to human uniqueness.
author: Janse van Rensburg, Helgard Michael
keywords: Lutheran theology, Science and religion, Ted Peters, Theistic evolution, Natural selection
license: https://uwcscholar.uwc.ac.za/bitstreams/914984ed-1793-4f66-a5c3-db690ea47999/download
date published: 2024
date modified: 2026-07-24T06:00:46Z
provider: University of the Western Cape
publisher: Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations
type: WebPage
source organization: University of the Western Cape