Author: Brown, Warren S.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(2), Sum 2005, pp. 149-155

Abstract:

The understanding of persons as composed of two separate parts, a body and a soul, tends to lead Christians towards gnosticism (i.e., emphasis on the soul and disregard for the body). This view has considerable impact on one’s understanding of suffering and disability. Dualism, with its emphasis on the central importance of the inner soul or self, implies that one need be less concerned about physical suffering or the relational impoverishment associated with disability. Considering persons to be primarily physical beings in relationship with God and his people elevates the importance of the behavioral, relational, and communal lives of persons, and forces greater attention to the impact of physical suffering and disability. Based on a physicalist view of humankind, this article argues that spiritual transformation and enhancement of flourishing for those who are suffering or disabled must involve creative and imaginative action by the immediate community to intervene in ways that enhance opportunities for personal relatedness.

Author: Brown, Warren S.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23(2), Sum 2004, pp. 110-120

Abstract:

It is often difficult to be clear about either the processes to engage in, or the final outcomes to be expected, when attempting to relate science and religion, or psychology and faith. This article presents the Resonance Model as a metaphoric way to think about the processes and outcomes of these dialogues. The Resonance Model has the advantage of (a) specifying a larger number of domains of relevant information that must be taken into account; (b) suggesting what sort of interrelationships can be expected; and (c) providing a formulation that is dynamic and suggestive of how to proceed. One example of a search for resonance is described—an attempt to relate a Christian anthropology to a neuroscientific view of human nature.