“The Language of God” by Francis Collins

I wasn’t expecting much from this book. I’m not much of a believer myself, and I regard anyone who tries to change my mind with a veeeeeery healthy dose of skepticism. But as I continued through this book, a few things set it apart in my mind.

First of all, Collins isn’t trying to convince anyone that you NEED God in your life. What he’s saying is that science and religion CAN be compatible. Whether or not you actually have the two in your life is up to you. Just know that you have the option.

Second, Collins frames his points in a series of questions (or objections) and answers. In this way, the thoughts that pop up to the reader are readily addressed in the book. Many of his responses come from other religious scholars, primarily C.S. Lewis. Clearly he has done his research. Many of the responses are also put into the context of Collins’ life and the doubts that he went through.

Which is another nice aspect of the book, Collins takes us through his own journey as an agnostic and eventually to faith. As a scientist, it’s nice to see the path that he has taken and be able to relate to the various steps along the way. Collins was in charge of the Human Genome Project, so the science that he explains is very well-written and accurate as well.

Finally, at the end he includes a brief section on bioethics and how religious views play into that. It’s so refreshing to hear a religious perspective that denounces all of the crazies out there that deny evolution or are stubbornly against stem cell research without bothering to learn about what they are. Once again, Collins demonstrates that he has done the background research and is amazingly capable of translating it to an ordinary audience.

I’m not any more of a religious person for reading this book, but I feel as though I have a more nuanced understanding of it and how it interacts with science. And a little understanding can make all the difference, give it a shot if you are religious, a scientist, or both.