>>Can you give me a simple clear explanation (of process theology)?>>
PT is complex; I would assert that no simple explanation would do it
justice.
To understand it (or even THINK you understand it), one needs to read
Whitehead's 1925 lectures (SCIENCE AND THE MODERN WORLD -- paperback) and
then a book by a modern PT. I'd suggest David Griffin's RELIGION &
SCIENTIFIC NATURALISM, a review of which is on the second page of my web
site at
www.burgy.50megs.com
Having made that disclaimer, I'd define it (I am sure inadaquately) as some
combination of points including, but not inclusive of:
1. PT is a "model" of God. God is not a "king," but we use that term. God
does not have "arms," but we talk of them. God is a "father," but we don't
expect he has male gentilia. Etc. Etc.
2. The PT model of God may, or may not, be omnipotent and all-knowing. If he
is, he has freely cosen to lay aside those attributes, at least with respect
to us. He can, and is, often surprised by our actions. He does not know the
future, except in outline.
3. The pT model of God is a being not "outside" the material universe
(classical theism), nor "part of the material universe (pantheism), but --
in a sense -- both (panENtheism).
4. The PT model of God does not view the material universe as "particles
hitting other particles," but more as interacting (prehending) "occasions of
experience).
5. The PT model of God places emphasis on God's closeness; classical theism
often on God's remoteness. Each position, taken to extreme, is incorrect, of
course.
I'll stop there.
Burgy
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