The what it means to be human and why it matters Dickerson, Matthew T. 1963- creator text bibliography miu Grand Rapids, MI Brazos Press c2011 2011 monographic eng

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xxvi, 230 p. ; 23 cm. "What does it mean to be human? Some naturalists believe that the human mind can be reduced to brain biology, suggesting that we are no more than complex biochemical machines. Computer scientist Matthew Dickerson critiques a physicalist/naturalist view of human persons and defends theistic accounts of human nature. He responds to the widespread assertion that human consciousness is nothing more than "software" that can one day be downloaded into supercomputers. Drawing on C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien, Dickerson gets at the heart of human nature itself, highlighting a far richer vision of personhood, creativity, and love. This thought-provoking book on a timely topic will appeal to those interested in science and religion, philosophy, and technology; readers of the materialist New Atheists; and anyone who simply cares what it means to be human" -- Publisher description. Ghosts, machines, and the nature of light -- Physicalism, creativity, and heroism -- Naturalism and nature : the ecology of physicalism -- Reason, science, and the mind as a physical brain -- Affirming the creative and the heroic -- Body, spirit, and the value of creation -- A biblical defense of reason and science -- The integrated person. Matthew Dickerson. Includes bibliographical references and index. Theological anthropology Christianity Mind and body Spirit BT702 .D53 2011 233/.5 9781587432729 (pbk.) 1587432722 (pbk.) 2010042053 DLC 101006 20160815111908.0 662401676