Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book that there is no conflict between evolution and belief in creation, and that belief in creation need not involve adherence to creationism, either in its Victorian version, or in its contemporary, consciously anti-Darwinian form, or even when dressed up in the trappings of Intelligent Design. It concerns meaning in two senses, the meaning of language (in Part I) and the meaning to be found in meaningful action or a meaningful life (in Part III). The value to be found in the world is further discussed towards the end of Part II ('Creation and Evolution'). The chapter clarifies the notion of non-derivative or intrinsic value, and then argues to characterize the world's creatures enough to warrant belief in a creator desirous of value, and whose creation generates value through evolutionary processes.