Natural Divine Causation

Natural Divine Causation (NDC) is a theory of divine action that proposes that God acts in the world through natural processes. NDC is often contrasted with interventionist theories of divine action, which hold that God intervenes in the world in ways that are not subject to natural laws.

NDC has been defended by a number of philosophers and theologians, including Philip Clayton, Arthur Peacocke, and Mikael Leidenhag. Clayton argues that NDC is the best way to understand the relationship between God and the world in light of modern science. He writes, "The world is a place of both chance and law, and God's action is to be found in the way that these two are brought together."

Peacocke argues that NDC is compatible with the scientific understanding of evolution. He writes, "Theistic evolution is the view that God has acted in the world through the process of evolution, guiding it towards its present state."

Leidenhag argues that NDC avoids the problem of overdetermination, which is the problem of how two or more causes can produce the same effect. He writes, "NDC holds that God's action is not an additional cause, but rather a way of understanding the natural processes themselves."

NDC has been criticized by some philosophers and theologians, who argue that it is not clear how God can act in the world without violating natural laws. However, NDC remains a popular theory of divine action among many people who believe in the compatibility of science and religion.

Here are some of the arguments for and against NDC:

Arguments for NDC:

  • NDC is compatible with the scientific understanding of the world.

  • NDC avoids the problem of overdetermination.

  • NDC provides a way to understand the relationship between God and the world.

Arguments against NDC:

  • It is not clear how God can act in the world without violating natural laws.

  • NDC is not supported by empirical evidence.

  • NDC is not compatible with some religious traditions.

Ultimately, the question of whether or not to accept NDC is a matter of personal faith. There is no scientific evidence to prove or disprove NDC, and the arguments for and against it are complex and nuanced.


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