EVOLUTION: The Theory of Teilhard de Chardin

The writings of the French Jesuit and paleontologist, Teilhard de Chardin, have raised again, in the last decade, the question whether a Christian view of evolution is possible. This small volume undertakes to posit Chardin's view of evolution, as it is set forth in his writings. Two main tendencies are found to intersect in his theory: one interlocking nature and history; the other making for the recovery of the oneness of man, overthrowing the dualism of soul and body. The essential question raised is that of evolution as progress, which Teilhard saw as culminating in the ""Omega Point,"" the grand summation of all things in Christ. The author's organization and presentation of Teilhard's diverse and often complex, not to say, mystical, argument, is characterized by clarity and simplicity. This should be a helpful introduction to one of the most influential thinkers of our century, to be welcomed by the reader first approaching the subject.