Scaling the Secular City summary

Exploring the Secular City

In Scaling the Secular City by J.P. Moreland, we embark on an intellectual journey that delves into the heart of a secular society. Moreland, a respected philosopher, theologian, and apologist, begins by acknowledging the increasing secularization of our society and the challenges it poses to religious belief. He then proceeds to examine the roots of secularism, tracing its development and the philosophical ideas that underpin it.

Moreland argues that the secular city, while presenting itself as neutral, is actually biased against religious belief. He explores the influence of naturalism, the idea that the natural world is all that exists, and its impact on our understanding of science, ethics, and the human mind. He also discusses the rise of skepticism, the belief that we cannot know anything with certainty, and its effect on religious belief. Moreland contends that these ideas have seeped into the fabric of our culture, shaping our worldview and influencing how we perceive reality.

Challenging Secular Assumptions

Having set the stage, Moreland then turns his attention to challenging the assumptions of secularism. He argues for the existence of the soul, contending that the mind is not reducible to the brain and that consciousness cannot be explained solely by physical processes. Moreland presents a robust defense of dualism, the idea that humans consist of both physical and non-physical elements, and argues that this view is more consistent with our first-person experience of the world.

In addition, Moreland addresses the issue of scientism, the belief that science is the only valid way of acquiring knowledge. He argues that this view is self-defeating, as it cannot be proven scientifically and undermines the very rationality and reliability of science itself. He also explores the relationship between science and faith, contending that they are not inherently in conflict and can, in fact, complement each other.

Defending Christian Theism

Transitioning from the philosophical to the theological, Moreland then mounts a defense of Christian theism. He presents arguments for the existence of God, including the cosmological, teleological, and moral arguments. Moreland also addresses common objections to theism, such as the problem of evil, divine hiddenness, and religious pluralism, offering thoughtful responses to these complex issues.

Furthermore, Moreland examines the historical evidence for the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He argues that the resurrection is the linchpin of the Christian faith, offering compelling evidence for its historical authenticity. Moreland also explores the implications of Jesus's resurrection, contending that it provides a rational basis for hope, meaning, and purpose in life.

Living in the Secular City

Concluding his exploration, Moreland offers practical advice for living as a Christian in a secular society. He emphasizes the importance of developing a robust intellectual faith, grounded in reason and evidence. Moreland also encourages believers to engage with culture, to be winsome and gracious in their interactions, and to embody the love and truth of Christ in their lives.

In Scaling the Secular City, J.P. Moreland provides a comprehensive critique of secularism and a compelling case for Christian theism. His work serves as a valuable resource for believers seeking to understand and engage with the secular world, as well as for skeptics and seekers wrestling with questions of faith and reason.