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Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply about the Meaning of Our Existence
By using principles from a variety of scientific disciplines, Yale Professor Samuel Wilkinson provides a framework for human evolution that reveals an overarching purpose to our existence.
Generations have been taught that evolution implies there is no overarching purpose to our existence, that life has no fundamental meaning. We are merely the accumulation of tens of thousands of intricate molecular accidents. Some scientists take this logic one step “The fact of evolution [is] inherently atheistic. It goes against the notion that there is a God.”
But is this true?
By integrating emerging principles from a variety of scientific disciplines—ranging from evolutionary biology to psychology—Yale Professor Samuel Wilkinson provides a framework of evolution that implies not only that there is an overarching purpose to our existence, but what this purpose is .
With respect to our evolution, nature seems to have endowed us with competing dispositions, what Wilkinson calls the dual potential of human nature . We are pulled in different selfishness and altruism, aggression and cooperation, lust and love. When we couple this with the observation that we possess a measure of free will, all this strongly implies there is a universal purpose to our existence.
This purpose, at least one of them, is to choose between the good and evil impulses that nature has created within us. Our life is a test. This is a truth, as old as history it seems, that has been espoused by so many of the world’s religions. From a certain framework, these aspects of human nature—including how evolution shaped us—are evidence for the existence of a God, not against it.
Closely related to this is meaning . What is the meaning of life? Based on the scientific data, it would seem that one such meaning is to develop deep and abiding relationships. At least that is what most people report are the most meaningful aspects of their lives. This is a function of our evolution. It is how we were created.
Generations have been taught that evolution implies there is no overarching purpose to our existence, that life has no fundamental meaning. We are merely the accumulation of tens of thousands of intricate molecular accidents. Some scientists take this logic one step “The fact of evolution [is] inherently atheistic. It goes against the notion that there is a God.”
But is this true?
By integrating emerging principles from a variety of scientific disciplines—ranging from evolutionary biology to psychology—Yale Professor Samuel Wilkinson provides a framework of evolution that implies not only that there is an overarching purpose to our existence, but what this purpose is .
With respect to our evolution, nature seems to have endowed us with competing dispositions, what Wilkinson calls the dual potential of human nature . We are pulled in different selfishness and altruism, aggression and cooperation, lust and love. When we couple this with the observation that we possess a measure of free will, all this strongly implies there is a universal purpose to our existence.
This purpose, at least one of them, is to choose between the good and evil impulses that nature has created within us. Our life is a test. This is a truth, as old as history it seems, that has been espoused by so many of the world’s religions. From a certain framework, these aspects of human nature—including how evolution shaped us—are evidence for the existence of a God, not against it.
Closely related to this is meaning . What is the meaning of life? Based on the scientific data, it would seem that one such meaning is to develop deep and abiding relationships. At least that is what most people report are the most meaningful aspects of their lives. This is a function of our evolution. It is how we were created.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published February 25, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 11, 2024
В цьому році у мене виникло питання: чи можна поєднувати віру в Бога з визнанням теорії еволюції?
І як відповідь мені трапилася ця книга, де автор аргументовано доводить, що можна.
Войовничих атеїстів він скоріше не переконає, бо вони вірять словам Докінза і Сапольські, крім того, їх мозок сам вирішує, у що вірити, так що в них не має вибору)
І як відповідь мені трапилася ця книга, де автор аргументовано доводить, що можна.
Войовничих атеїстів він скоріше не переконає, бо вони вірять словам Докінза і Сапольські, крім того, їх мозок сам вирішує, у що вірити, так що в них не має вибору)
January 7, 2025
I was really excited about this book, but I think in an effort to make this a “science book,” there was a missed opportunity to truly showcase how faith and science are truly not at odds. The author starts the book by stating that he will not talk about God or a “Divine Being,” but the undertones of Christianity are clear throughout the whole book. I would’ve liked to have seen the author fully embrace the role of faith and add in the various theories of evolution/theological evolution that touch on God’s role/hand in science.
December 22, 2024
4 stars because there were a lot of ideas I hadn’t considered before—the prevalence of convergent evolution, the importance of kin selection in human evolution, the dual nature of humanity resulting from competing evolutionary interests. Especially interesting was that in-group altruism may necessary for out-group hatred to evolve and vice versa. I thought the book would have benefited greatly from a more thorough evolutionary account of the dual nature of humanity, especially the chapter on monogamy vs polyamory.
I found the idea that the purpose of life is a “test” between dual human nature extremely unconvincing, and I wish the author would have done more to link the “test” to human relationships.
The final third of the book, about the good life and the good society, felt unoriginal (probably since I just finished reading the Good Life) and only barely connected to the central thesis of the book.
I found the idea that the purpose of life is a “test” between dual human nature extremely unconvincing, and I wish the author would have done more to link the “test” to human relationships.
The final third of the book, about the good life and the good society, felt unoriginal (probably since I just finished reading the Good Life) and only barely connected to the central thesis of the book.
April 3, 2024
I appreciate what the author is trying to do (make Evolution more palatable for religious folk), but he barely makes any effort to support the assertion that God is somehow involved in the process.
The Free Will chapter was pretty weak as well.
The Free Will chapter was pretty weak as well.
May 2, 2024
The book begins with a discussion of the ‘Scopes Monkey Trial’ in Tennessee in 1925. John Scopes, a twenty-four year old substitute teacher and football coach was charged with violation of the recently passed Butler Act, which made it a crime to teach any theory which contradicted the Bible. Scopes had taught evolution which claimed that human beings had evolved from apes (in contradiction of the Bible). Scopes, himself, had very little role in the trial. The key players were William Jennings Bryan, a three-time presidential candidate and outspoken apologist for religious fundamentalism, for the prosecution, and Clarence Darrow, the most prominent defense attorney in the US at the time, for the defense. During the trial, Darrow called Bryan as a witness, and that interrogation resulted in a painful and cruel renunciation of biblical literalism. The jury, however, accepted that Scopes was guilty and fined him $100. The Scopes Monkey Trial, says the author, epitomises the science vs religion debate.
Wilkinson next attacks the doctrine of randomness associated with the concept of evolution: that every change in the struggle for survival was accidental and random, without any guidance or control. If one believes that human beings are a random construction, what are we here for? If we are here for no reason, it suggests that there is no God. But the author shows that evolution was far from a random process. That, for example, very different species have developed the same eye technology in entirely different environments at different times. The same point can be made about wings and lungs. The evolution of bacteria can be predicted.
Wilkinson then turns to the various selection processes that determine which variant is the one most likely to survive: is it done on an individual basis, amongst kin, or groups or at multiple levels. Selection can take place at different levels depending on the context, with very different results. Based on theses observations, it is not difficult to see that given the same starting point and the same inputs, living things would evolve exactly as they did if the process were to start over.
Wilkinson points out that human beings have two different sets of behaviours: kind, gentile, thoughtful, cooperative and forgiving vs. selfish, aggressive, emotive, combative and irrational. These two sets of behaviour have evolved consistently with us and are present in each of us to some extent. It is noted that even the ‘negative set’ have survival benefits in some circumstances. Wilkinson presents evidence that as human beings we are happiest when we have good relationships with others. On this basis, the author argues that life is meant as a test for us: how can we use our skills to maximise our good relations with others? He says there is certainly space to believe in a God who has given us free will and the opportunity to use our lives to benefit others.
Wilkinson presents well thought out arguments very clearly with a host of factual data. One cannot say he is wrong. He admits to a belief in God, but his belief is not part of his argument. He leaves it to the reader to draw her own conclusions, but don’t miss this read!
Wilkinson next attacks the doctrine of randomness associated with the concept of evolution: that every change in the struggle for survival was accidental and random, without any guidance or control. If one believes that human beings are a random construction, what are we here for? If we are here for no reason, it suggests that there is no God. But the author shows that evolution was far from a random process. That, for example, very different species have developed the same eye technology in entirely different environments at different times. The same point can be made about wings and lungs. The evolution of bacteria can be predicted.
Wilkinson then turns to the various selection processes that determine which variant is the one most likely to survive: is it done on an individual basis, amongst kin, or groups or at multiple levels. Selection can take place at different levels depending on the context, with very different results. Based on theses observations, it is not difficult to see that given the same starting point and the same inputs, living things would evolve exactly as they did if the process were to start over.
Wilkinson points out that human beings have two different sets of behaviours: kind, gentile, thoughtful, cooperative and forgiving vs. selfish, aggressive, emotive, combative and irrational. These two sets of behaviour have evolved consistently with us and are present in each of us to some extent. It is noted that even the ‘negative set’ have survival benefits in some circumstances. Wilkinson presents evidence that as human beings we are happiest when we have good relationships with others. On this basis, the author argues that life is meant as a test for us: how can we use our skills to maximise our good relations with others? He says there is certainly space to believe in a God who has given us free will and the opportunity to use our lives to benefit others.
Wilkinson presents well thought out arguments very clearly with a host of factual data. One cannot say he is wrong. He admits to a belief in God, but his belief is not part of his argument. He leaves it to the reader to draw her own conclusions, but don’t miss this read!
August 26, 2025
BOOK REVIEW - Purpose, What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence, by Samuel T. Wilkinson (07.07.25)
This book weaves together evolutionary biology, psychology, sociology, and philosophy in a way that’s both intellectually solid and accessible—especially for general readers grappling with the perceived clash between science and spirituality. His discussions span topics such as altruism versus selfishness, cooperation versus competition, and how these dual potentials root our struggle for meaning.
A standout conceptual core of the book is the idea that human beings are pulled in opposing directions—lust and love, aggression and cooperation, selfishness and altruism—and that our capacity for free will implies that life is, in effect, a “test” whose outcome speaks to purpose. Wilkinson brings warmth and intimacy to complex discussions. Personal anecdotes—such as his own existential wrestling as a medical student and scientist of faith—enhance engagement and invite readers into a genuine conversation.
Wilkinson points to examples such as the independent evolution of streamlined forms in dolphins and sharks to argue that evolution follows patterns that hint at purpose and constraint, countering purely random narratives.
My impression was that he relied a lot on theological reasoning without empirical proof or put simply his argument in a nutshell is implies a divine plan. That may be, but that is purely a matter of faith not empirical proof. While Wilkinson’s science is solid, he does not sufficiently grapple with deeper philosophical issues such as the nature of meaning, or the implications of suffering.
Purpose is a compelling and accessible exploration of how evolutionary science and human nature might point toward a deeper meaning in our lives. Wilkinson offers a refreshing narrative that speaks to both faith and curiosity. Yet, readers seeking a strictly empirical or philosophically rigorous proof of divine purpose may find the arguments suggestive rather than conclusive, which is ok in my world view. The book invites a hopeful interpretation of evolution—one where meaning emerges not despite nature, but through its very design.
Quotes:
“To be sure, a human being is a finite thing, and his freedom is restricted. It is not freedom from conditions, but it is freedom to take a stand toward the conditions….”
“According to Seligman, [meaning] involves ‘belonging to and serving something that you believe is bigger than the self.’ Meaning is almost always tied to how we interact with others… Positive Relationships… give us a sense of peace, happiness, security, and well‑being.”
This book weaves together evolutionary biology, psychology, sociology, and philosophy in a way that’s both intellectually solid and accessible—especially for general readers grappling with the perceived clash between science and spirituality. His discussions span topics such as altruism versus selfishness, cooperation versus competition, and how these dual potentials root our struggle for meaning.
A standout conceptual core of the book is the idea that human beings are pulled in opposing directions—lust and love, aggression and cooperation, selfishness and altruism—and that our capacity for free will implies that life is, in effect, a “test” whose outcome speaks to purpose. Wilkinson brings warmth and intimacy to complex discussions. Personal anecdotes—such as his own existential wrestling as a medical student and scientist of faith—enhance engagement and invite readers into a genuine conversation.
Wilkinson points to examples such as the independent evolution of streamlined forms in dolphins and sharks to argue that evolution follows patterns that hint at purpose and constraint, countering purely random narratives.
My impression was that he relied a lot on theological reasoning without empirical proof or put simply his argument in a nutshell is implies a divine plan. That may be, but that is purely a matter of faith not empirical proof. While Wilkinson’s science is solid, he does not sufficiently grapple with deeper philosophical issues such as the nature of meaning, or the implications of suffering.
Purpose is a compelling and accessible exploration of how evolutionary science and human nature might point toward a deeper meaning in our lives. Wilkinson offers a refreshing narrative that speaks to both faith and curiosity. Yet, readers seeking a strictly empirical or philosophically rigorous proof of divine purpose may find the arguments suggestive rather than conclusive, which is ok in my world view. The book invites a hopeful interpretation of evolution—one where meaning emerges not despite nature, but through its very design.
Quotes:
“To be sure, a human being is a finite thing, and his freedom is restricted. It is not freedom from conditions, but it is freedom to take a stand toward the conditions….”
“According to Seligman, [meaning] involves ‘belonging to and serving something that you believe is bigger than the self.’ Meaning is almost always tied to how we interact with others… Positive Relationships… give us a sense of peace, happiness, security, and well‑being.”
December 4, 2024
Samuel T. Wilkinson’s Purpose boldly tackles one of life’s grandest questions: Why are we here? Drawing from evolutionary biology, psychology, and theology, Wilkinson builds an argument that evolution, far from being purely random, reveals a higher purpose guided by natural principles. He links humanity’s dual nature—selfishness versus altruism—to the evolutionary forces that shape us. Through this framework, Wilkinson examines profound questions about morality, happiness, and the societal structures that foster human flourishing.
What stood out most to me was Wilkinson’s ability to bridge science and faith. He does so in a way that feels inclusive, not preachy. For instance, his discussion of convergent evolution—the independent development of similar traits in unrelated species—challenges the randomness of evolution. When he points out how dolphins and sharks evolved streamlined forms independently, it’s hard not to feel awe. Wilkinson makes a strong case that these repeated patterns hint at a purpose embedded in nature itself. This was eye-opening and left me rethinking my own assumptions about evolution.
The writing itself is thoughtful and engaging. I appreciated how Wilkinson wove personal anecdotes, like his own struggles with reconciling faith and science, into broader arguments. These moments made the text relatable. His tone remains accessible even when discussing complex topics, such as the psychological effects of incivility or the health benefits of prosocial behaviors. The chapter on family relationships as the foundation of societal well-being struck a particularly emotional chord for me. Wilkinson's argument that family ties strengthen our altruistic tendencies felt deeply resonant and hopeful.
At times, the pacing felt uneven, particularly in the middle chapters. I believe that some sections, such as the technical discussion of embryonic development as an analogy for evolution, seemed a bit too detailed for a general audience. Still, these moments are outweighed by the clarity of his broader message.
I’d highly recommend Purpose to anyone curious about the intersection of science and spirituality. It’s a thought-provoking read for believers grappling with evolution, skeptics seeking a deeper understanding of faith, or anyone interested in exploring what it means to live a meaningful life. Wilkinson’s synthesis of research and reflection offers a fresh perspective that inspires both introspection and action. This is a book that challenges, uplifts, and ultimately leaves you hopeful about the human journey.
What stood out most to me was Wilkinson’s ability to bridge science and faith. He does so in a way that feels inclusive, not preachy. For instance, his discussion of convergent evolution—the independent development of similar traits in unrelated species—challenges the randomness of evolution. When he points out how dolphins and sharks evolved streamlined forms independently, it’s hard not to feel awe. Wilkinson makes a strong case that these repeated patterns hint at a purpose embedded in nature itself. This was eye-opening and left me rethinking my own assumptions about evolution.
The writing itself is thoughtful and engaging. I appreciated how Wilkinson wove personal anecdotes, like his own struggles with reconciling faith and science, into broader arguments. These moments made the text relatable. His tone remains accessible even when discussing complex topics, such as the psychological effects of incivility or the health benefits of prosocial behaviors. The chapter on family relationships as the foundation of societal well-being struck a particularly emotional chord for me. Wilkinson's argument that family ties strengthen our altruistic tendencies felt deeply resonant and hopeful.
At times, the pacing felt uneven, particularly in the middle chapters. I believe that some sections, such as the technical discussion of embryonic development as an analogy for evolution, seemed a bit too detailed for a general audience. Still, these moments are outweighed by the clarity of his broader message.
I’d highly recommend Purpose to anyone curious about the intersection of science and spirituality. It’s a thought-provoking read for believers grappling with evolution, skeptics seeking a deeper understanding of faith, or anyone interested in exploring what it means to live a meaningful life. Wilkinson’s synthesis of research and reflection offers a fresh perspective that inspires both introspection and action. This is a book that challenges, uplifts, and ultimately leaves you hopeful about the human journey.
August 7, 2024
I thought this book would delve more into the evolution and scientific backed aspect of human purpose, but it was a good mixture of religion versus the anti-religious idea of evolution. As someone unsure of God’s existence, this book does provide a new and semi-refreshing perspective on the idea of our “purpose”. The book also provides great evidence for what humanity is meant to do to live a happy life. However, the 3 star rating is due to a frequent listing of research without much analysis, which can make for a hard read at times. There is a ton of summarized research that provides an already known conclusion to many readers. For example, the authors displays many research projects that display evidence of the strength of a married family versus a divorced one, and how it leads to a happier life for the children. Topics like these were discussed in length despite the basic understanding needed for the concept. I would have liked to see more analysis and opinions from the author, as I opened this book to learn a new perspective. However, these complaints do not diminish the education and articulation of ideas that the author has. He is well-versed in his ideas and the ideas are supported by profound scholars throughout many fields of science. I do believe this author can write a more compelling book as his education was apparent. All things said, if you are looking for a new perspective that combines the worlds of religion and evolution, this book provides a fresh perspective that can offer new ideas on how you can win at achieving your “purpose”.
March 8, 2024
my gut instincts is that this book is merely about psychology
and MAYBE social organization in animals
but i think the evolution and philosophy stuff are just minor attachments forced on with paste.
...........
I've never felt totally at ease with Dawkins and his all or nothing debates with E.O. Wilson and Sociobiology, but i think the issue is that evolution works on both, the individual and in a social kin level as well.
When you get into Animal Behavior, you can try hard to make it philosophical, and moral, and try hard to make it fit into Darwin or Genetics.
I only care when the centipedes take over and kill off all the petty humans.
They can decided these philosophical debates about the morality of society
I think the author is pondering purpose, and i don't think it has much to do with animal behavior, human behavior or evolution.
I wonder if murderous blobs from the Planet Chromo or jellyfish, or cuttlefish-like monsters from Betelguese who settle in the warery depths as The Ancient Ones, will awaken when the stars are aright and they will give purpose to this planet.
Petty humans get the fuck out of the way, you are insignificant
and MAYBE social organization in animals
but i think the evolution and philosophy stuff are just minor attachments forced on with paste.
...........
I've never felt totally at ease with Dawkins and his all or nothing debates with E.O. Wilson and Sociobiology, but i think the issue is that evolution works on both, the individual and in a social kin level as well.
When you get into Animal Behavior, you can try hard to make it philosophical, and moral, and try hard to make it fit into Darwin or Genetics.
I only care when the centipedes take over and kill off all the petty humans.
They can decided these philosophical debates about the morality of society
I think the author is pondering purpose, and i don't think it has much to do with animal behavior, human behavior or evolution.
I wonder if murderous blobs from the Planet Chromo or jellyfish, or cuttlefish-like monsters from Betelguese who settle in the warery depths as The Ancient Ones, will awaken when the stars are aright and they will give purpose to this planet.
Petty humans get the fuck out of the way, you are insignificant
September 6, 2024
Wilkinson gives a good account of evolutionary theory, but makes much of the claim that evolution is not random, citing convergent evolution. But convergent evolution is not surprising given that there are limited niches available in which life is possible at all, so any life form exploiting a niche may well converge to similar form that works well in that niche. He devotes considerable space to demonstrating that the most satisfying mode of human life is family-centered monogamy. But he fails utterly--indeed, barely attempts--to show that the evolutionary process has benefited from top-down direction by a god interested in the outcome. Given that four billion years of evolution on Earth has been able to generate millions of species--but only one of which has, very recently, become humankind--it seems an extraordinarily inefficient way to reach (with a flawed result) an a-priori end goal that might otherwise have been attained at once by special creation. Nor does Wilkinson show that human ideas of good and evil are divinely inspired. Indeed, the inherent cruelty of the evolutionary process seems to be inconsistent with oversight by a benevolent deity.
June 7, 2024
I'm a little confused as to some of these reviews. Like, hate it or like it, did the author not consistently show, in great detail, the point of his book: that evolution and human nature IMPLY (he doesn't claim to PROVE) that life has a general meaning and purpose?
That's it. In that endeavor, I think he did a great job showing me that one of the purposes of life, given that we are endowed with this sort of dual nature, and given all of the great on one hand, and gruesome, on the other hand, humans are capable of choosing--it seems highly plausible that our purpose in life is to try our darndest to choose what we think and feel is the better angels of ourselves. To try and choose those things that help humankind flourish, cooperate, socialize, and harmonize seems to be the better option. To choose those things that are part of our baser, more animalistic nature seems to be the lesser option. To try and reconcile both as well as treating faith and science with equal respect, is what I think the author did well.
That's it. In that endeavor, I think he did a great job showing me that one of the purposes of life, given that we are endowed with this sort of dual nature, and given all of the great on one hand, and gruesome, on the other hand, humans are capable of choosing--it seems highly plausible that our purpose in life is to try our darndest to choose what we think and feel is the better angels of ourselves. To try and choose those things that help humankind flourish, cooperate, socialize, and harmonize seems to be the better option. To choose those things that are part of our baser, more animalistic nature seems to be the lesser option. To try and reconcile both as well as treating faith and science with equal respect, is what I think the author did well.
August 31, 2025
This book was fantastic. It did an amazing job with its insightful and accessible exploration of how evolutionary science interacts with questions of meaning, morality, and human well being. Wilkinson does an amazing job debunking the idea that evolution is purely random and meaningless and shows instead how principles like evolutionary convergence reveal structure and direction. His discussion of human nature was also great: we are both selfish and altruistic, violent and nurturing, but family and committed relationships provide the context that draws out our better side.
I also appreciated most is how broadly relevant the book feels. Whether religious or not, I think anyone can find value in the book learning about biology, free will, social science and everyday life. He had some great insights on marriage and fatherhood show their role in human happiness and stability. The book left me with some better insights how science doesn’t diminish purpose but actually deepens it and points us towards the data backed choices that will help us live well.
I also appreciated most is how broadly relevant the book feels. Whether religious or not, I think anyone can find value in the book learning about biology, free will, social science and everyday life. He had some great insights on marriage and fatherhood show their role in human happiness and stability. The book left me with some better insights how science doesn’t diminish purpose but actually deepens it and points us towards the data backed choices that will help us live well.
October 3, 2025
I enjoyed this book and learned a lot, but it disappointed me too. At the outset, the author explained that he, a psychiatrist and Yale professor, believes in both creation by God and in evolution, stating that God uses evolution to bring about his creation. Cool, I believe that too. I thought the book would be more about that and include how he draws that conclusion and ways that I can convince others to believe that too, haha. Instead it was a deep dive into the history of evolutionary science and philosophy, followed by a bunch of his own reasonable conclusions about how the evolution of humans leads us to a choice between selfish violence and purposeful service and cooperation with others, and proving that the latter gives us an evolutionary advantage individually and as a species. So he basically uses science to convince us that the things we have already learned in church about how to treat others are true, haha. Still interesting though.
November 20, 2025
Read this book! If you've wondered how evolution and religion can be in harmony, this book will explain. Basically, the author takes the reader through the reasons why God could use evolution as His grand design for the world and for humanity, leading to the conclusion that through evolutionary processes, humans have been designed to exercise their agency while here in this life, to choose good or evil. Furthermore, those evolutionary processes have designed us to flourish through our relationships with each other, as members of communities and especially of families and in marriage. Highly recommended.
June 18, 2024
If God created the universe…he could have created this world. As such, Creation Theory + science descended from the laws of the Creator can all be true. I love how this author wants us to understand how God is real and true, yet his ability to ‘middle’ on key topics is his demise. Evolution is bunk. God created. Go back to Genesis 1-11 and digest it as truth. Then study the laws of thermodynamics. Jesus loves you. It sounds to good to be true…and yet… 😇
September 22, 2025
Thought-provoking exploration of dual nature with some helpful thought exercises about human behavior supported by evolutionary processes. The author wasn't attempting a proof of a divine creator, but, rather, assumed this from the beginning and built his research and ideas around it. Although this was very open and helpful for anyone coming from that perspective, others may not find the central points as strong because of it.
November 17, 2025
I honestly loved this. I think *a ton* of people could find reasons to be offended by it but I think he does a good job backing up his claims wherever possible.
He also states that he’s not saying that Christianity is the only correct God but the proceeds to use the Bible as the only religious text referenced and he quotes multiple LDS scholars, specifically well known ones who teach at BYU… so strong LDS vibes.
He also states that he’s not saying that Christianity is the only correct God but the proceeds to use the Bible as the only religious text referenced and he quotes multiple LDS scholars, specifically well known ones who teach at BYU… so strong LDS vibes.
January 22, 2025
Fascinating read. Worth a re-read. Fundamentally changed how I think about how we can harness our knowledge of evolution to benefit the human species.
Interesting arguments pointing towards God’s existence.
Thought the section on free will was somewhat lacking.
Enjoyable and very interesting read. Will re read and update review.
Interesting arguments pointing towards God’s existence.
Thought the section on free will was somewhat lacking.
Enjoyable and very interesting read. Will re read and update review.
March 9, 2024
As soon as I saw the evangelical Christian Frances Collin's name on a blurb, my guard was up. And then I saw something about how God started evolution... I could not throw this book away fast enough! Creationist bullshit.
May 29, 2024
I am left with many unanswered questions after reading Purpose. For example, the book focuses on humans and human nature, while my understanding of evolution is that it extends beyond humans to all beings, even the bodies in the universe. Does everything require a purpose?
October 10, 2024
If you imagine someone who doesn't like what they perceive as the conclusion of Darwin's theory of evolution, but sadly don't even have a rudimentary understanding of the topic, but still wants to write a book about it, to challenge it, you can get books like this one. This was pretty bad, but I still have some sympathy for some of their concerns. I don't think the intention is bad at least. I also question the validity of radical biological determinism, but there's much better books to read if you want books challenging things like that. I'd stay away from this one.
November 25, 2024
2024 BIBA Winner!
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