Summary: In this illuminating book, Dean L. Overman uses logical principles and mathematical calculations to answer the questions that have long perplexed biologists and astrophysicists:

Is it mathematically possible that accidental processes caused the formation of the first form of living matter from non-living matter? Could accidental processes have caused the formation of a universe compatible with life? Are current self-organization scenarios for the formation of the first living matter plausible? Overman reviews the influence of metaphysical assumptions in logical analysis, and discusses the principles of logic applicable to these questions, examining the limitations of verbal and mathematical logic. He proceeds to demonstrate that it is mathematically impossible that accidental processes produced the first living matter. The author also examines other issues related to the creation of the universe, including Stephen Hawking's no boundary proposal, the need for a Creator as the preserving cause of the universe, and the explanations offered by the weak and strong anthropic principles. Acclaimed by theologians and scientists alike as well-argued, coherent, and persuasive, A Case Against Accicdent and Self-Organization is a fascinating study of the origins of life and our universe.

Reviews of "A Case Against Accident and Self-Organization"

"...impressive work."

Philosophia Christi

"A valuable contribution to the discussion about the relationship between natural science and theology."

Wolfhart Pannenberg, University of Munich

"For entertainment, Mr. Overman likes to ponder the origins of life on Earth, the mysteries of quantum mechanics and the nuances of particle physics. His mastery of these fields has earned him the respect and admiration of scholars from Cambridge to Harvard."

Mona Charen, The Washington Times

"Overman's Brilliant book A Case Against Accident and Self-Organization will demonstrate to any reader that the universe we know could hardly have arisen by chance."

The American Enterprise

"The writing is very clear, with hierarchic organization of numbered sections and subsections. Overman writes for the intelligent layperson, making this fine presentation of the argument for Design accessible to a wide audience."

Charles E. Chaffey, Universtiy of Toronto, Book Reviews, Vo. 51, No. 1 March 99

"The author has provided an eminently readable and interesting book."

Glenn Wyper, Reformed Review fall 98, Vo. 52 N0. 1

"Overman's 'brief' finds implausible the claims that life evolved from nonlife by chance and that the conditions for life in the universe are without cause. . . . As clear and straightforward an argument as one can find."

First Things

Buy the interview"Not by Accident: The Improbability of Life Itself" at Mars Hill Audio