Monday, July 9, 2012

Around the Web: January 2011


Radio Host and apologist Greg Koukl addressed the relationship between the mind and the brain on the Stand to Reason blog.  Modern neuroscience is typically characterized by materialist, physicalist assumptions about the relationship between the brain and the mind such that mind is entirely dependent on the brain.  A variant of this position was proposed by Dr Warren Brown of Fuller Seminary at last year’s Christianity and Psychology: 5 views conference.  Koukl, a philosopher by training, defends a dualist position in this article.  He writes, “If the mind is reduced to the brain, pretty soon everything is lost. Feelings become chemical reactions, beautiful objects become light waves, beautiful music is reduced to vibrating molecules. Where did the music go? Where did the beauty go? Where did the feeling go? It's all gone.”  Regardless of one’s viewpoint on this issue, seeking to understand the scientific and metaphysical implications of each viewpoint is important. 

Theologian C Michael Patton wrote about a time of despair he experienced last year.  He described 4 states of emotional wellness, and his journey through them.  Patton characteristically writes knowledgably, and from his heart.  We can often learn from the experiences of others going through trying times and Patton’s insights prove beneficial. 

Bob Kellemen shared ten trends in Biblical Counseling that he has observed in recent years, which he believes represents a changing tide.  Kellemen describes increasing collegiality amongst Biblical counselors, who are increasingly seeking to learn from one another in much the same way that SCP seeks to do.  He points to an increasing focus, or perhaps refocus, upon compassionate, gospel centered care.

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