Understanding the Nature of Natural Chemical Reactions

Seminary Room S340

Confusion about chemical reactions and their ability to spontaneously perform the necessary chemical or biochemical functions of life provides challenges to science and theology discussions. Since living systems are based on chemical reactions, it is necessary to understand how chemical reactions work. A lack of chemical knowledge by both scientists and theologians causes confusion about what is within reach of natural chemical reactions. Further investigation into the definition of natural and unnatural might help scientists, and others, to determine where outside influence (time, energy, or intelligence) is needed to build life-giving chemical systems. There is a need to understand what is possible to chemically accomplish with natural and unnatural reactions. These terms need better definitions so that both scientists and laymen can understand and utilize these terms to describe the world around us. Earth is a special chemical environment containing natural and unnatural chemical reactions that support life. Examples of natural and unnatural chemical reactions will be given, compared, and contrasted to provide a foundation for understanding the chemical basis of life.