Science, Faith and Family : Genes and Worldviews

Career scientist and Co-Founder of the Faraday Institute, Denis Alexander, explores questions of faith and science through the lens of family life and history. Which is more influential in the directions we take in our lives - genes or world-view? The answer comes in this account of kinship, love and adventure as the author recounts his family history, varied career and 15-year sojourn in Turkey and Lebanon as a university lecturer. Drawing together images from the family archive, anecdotal accounts and personal reflections, the author weaves an illuminating tapestry of life 'on the way less travelled', and the vibrancy of a world-view which can empower one to live through war and violence. The book aims to help the general reader understand the interrelation between science and faith through Denis' interaction with a diverse spectrum of beliefs and cultures. It pulls together strands from personal faith and theology; forty years of scientific study including cancer research (including experiencing cancer himself); and his co-founding of The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion at Cambridge University. Science, Faith and Family offers insights into Middle Eastern politics and religion, behavioural genetics and biblical wisdom on living as a Christian in the scientific community - including in some very dangerous places.