Big History and Evangelical Theology mix like oil and water. Evangelical theologian Roger E Olson is sharply critical of the naturalistic and materialistic assumptions made by big historians. Big History and EvangelicaL Theology? Like oil and water.
I recommend that Big History expand its method to include the history of humanity's differentiating consciousness and reask the God question. The God Question turns Big History into Cosmic History.
Religious Naturalism meets Big History. Evolutionary biologist Ursula Goodenough finds meaning already within natural processes. And this justifies her religious naturalist orientation. Religious Naturalism meets Big History.
When we remind ourselves of the connection between Teilhard and Big History, we realize that the universe story we tell need not be reduced to a materialist ideology. Our account of cosmic history could include consciousness, goodness, and even transcendence. Teilhard and Big History? What a difference!
How do science and religion relate within big history? Like an ancient army pillaging conquered villages, the scientific conquerors steal from religion origin stories and the grounding of morality. No wonder religion fits so awkwardly within Big History! Science and religion in big history? Well, it's awkward.