Periodic Solutions of the N-Body Problem Book

John Polkinghorne demonstrates that the way scientists approach the search for truth in physics is allegorical to the approach theologians use in the same search. He is careful not to push the allegory too far and notes some important differences between the two disciplines.

Consider, "do we believe in order to understand or understand in order to believe." These questions were similarly helpful in both physics and theology. The dilemma was answered historically as, both. An ideology was developed that Polkinghorne refers to as critical realism. This is reasonably imagining a solution without the presents of empirical data. This leads to a motivation to use both experiment and experience in the search for truth.

The critical thinking skills that had to be developed in order to lead to the quantum theory is allegorical of how theologians come to learn of an inconceivable God. What might seem illogical or even ridiculous to the uninformed could just be thinking "outside the box" so to speak. Two forms of rational enquiry developing similar skills searching for truth.

Polkinghourne sees truth pointing toward the historical resurrection of Jesus. This event is central to our understanding of God.

To quote. "The purpose of this book is to purse further the analogies between the scientific investigation of the physical world and theological exploration of the nature of God."