Science and the Mind of the Maker by Melissa Cain Travis

The thesis of this book, Travis writes, is “...Christian theism, unlike atheism, offers a sufficient explanation of the observable features of the natural world as well as mankind's impressive scientific achievements.” (Loc 54/2845) The foundational rationality of nature and that humans are fit to investigate nature are amazing. There is a Mind behind the universe, making it possible for rational inquiry to exist.

Her Maker Thesis suggests certain discoveries of the natural sciences support the inference of a Mind behind the universe, and that this Mind intended man to be successful in studying the natural sciences. She suggests the Mind structured the universe in such a way man could investigate it and become aware of Him.

She argues in three areas. First, from modern scientific evidence supporting the philosophical argument for the existence of the Maker. Second, explaining the features of the universe that need to exist to make scientific investigation possible. Third, the philosophical argument that a rational Mind and humans with souls are necessary to the effective practice of the natural sciences.

Some of her philosophical arguments were beyond my attention span. Her evidence from science did make sense to me. There was a beginning to the universe. The universe is fine tuned for life. The sophisticated design of DNA. There is an amazing interconnection between mathematics and nature. I really appreciated her explanation of the Higg's field and Higg's boson. It's the best I've seen for the non-scientist. I am glad she chose not to enter into the creation/evolution debate too. The Maker Thesis works either way.

In her conclusion, Travis believes the Maker Thesis best explains the scientific evidence and philosophical arguments she has presented. I think she has done a good job of it. Some of the material might be puzzling for non-scientific readers but she provides a list of key points at the end of each chapter.

I recommend this book to Christians who are dismayed by the recent claims of atheists that science is disproving the existence of God. Travis shows it is not the case. Granted, there is no hard scientific evidence available to prove that God exists and designed the universe. But Travis's work shows that the Maker Thesis provides a good account of nature and our ability to comprehend and investigate it.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

Melissa Cain Travis is a professor of apologetics at Houston Baptist University, a contributing writer for Christian Research Journal, and a homeschooling mom. She is the author of three books in the Young Defenders apologetics storybook series. She has a BS in general biology from Campbell University, an MA in Science and Religion from Biola University and is pursuing a PhD, focusing on the history and philosophy related to scientific and mathematical thought in the Western tradition and contemporary scholarship. She is dedicated to exploring the science, theology, and philosophy behind the origins debate. You can find out more at www.melissatravis.com. (Photo credit: Tom Liskey Photography)

Harvest House Publishers, 224 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.