Abstract
DR. NEWSHOLME in his previous book and lectures has stressed the vital significance of mind and soul, and in this, his latest work, he deals with the subject much more deeply and fully. He has made a valiant attempt in a most difficult field, for it is presumed that one of his aims is to reduce further the supposed antagonism between religion and science by putting forward a view of redemption, not only of humanity but also of the whole universe, assumed to be in need of it, which should fit in with modern views of evolution and even of relativity. An ingenious though not too convincing theory of evil and its origin and of the manner in which it will ultimately be exterminated is offered; but it must be regretfully admitted that much of it is sheer speculation sometimes bordering on the fantastic, and unduly tedious. It is assumed that matter, even in its earliest elemental form, has embryonic soul and spirit, that it can be contaminated with evil and thenceforth suffer from inertia, which seems to be a particular manifestation of evil. The book should appeal to medical men interested in religious philosophy, but despite its tone of deep piety and earnest conviction it cannot be regarded as a very satisfying contribution to Christian apologetics. It is doubtless a very sincere attempt to clear up some of the difficulties, from the scientific point of view, of the Christian faith, but it is extremely hard to say whether this greater clarity has been achieved.
Evolution and Redemption.
By Dr. H. P. Newsholme. Pp. 267. (London: Williams and Norgate, Ltd., 1933.) 8s. 6d net.
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[Short Reviews]. Nature 132, 559 (1933). https://doi.org/10.1038/132559c0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/132559c0