The Genealogical Adam and Eve

The Surprising Science of Universal Ancestry

Evolutionary science teaches that humans arose as a population, sharing common ancestors with other animals. Most readers of the book of Genesis in the past understood all humans descended from Adam and Eve, a couple specially created by God. These two teachings seem contradictory, but is that necessarily so? In the fractured conversation of human origins, can new insight guide us to solid ground in both science and theology? In The Genealogical Adam and Eve, S. Joshua Swamidass tests a scientific hypothesis: What if the traditional account is somehow true, with the origins of Adam and Eve taking place alongside evolution? Building on well-established but overlooked science, Swamidass explains how it’s possible for Adam and Eve to be rightly identified as the ancestors of everyone. His analysis opens up new possibilities for understanding Adam and Eve, consistent both with current scientific consensus and with traditional readings of Scripture. These new possibilities open a conversation about what it means to be human. In this book, Swamidass

  • untangles several misunderstandings about the words human and ancestry, in both science and theology
  • explains how genetic and genealogical ancestry are different, and how universal genealogical ancestry creates a new opportunity for rapprochement
  • explores implications of genealogical ancestry for the theology of the image of God, the fall, and people “outside the garden”

Some think Adam and Eve are a myth. Some think evolution is a myth. Either way, the best available science opens up space to engage larger questions together. In this bold exploration, Swamidass charts a new way forward for peace between mainstream science and the Christian faith.

On Mere Theistic Evolution Thomas H. McCall
The Christian community needs to see more humility from its intellectual leaders—and more patience and less pressure to crank out surefire answers to hard questions on complex issues.
The Meaning of Our Logo
The Meaning of Our Logo David Rygiol
This typographic logo is meant to be composed with images corresponding to different content areas, but also conveying our mission and identity.
The Publisher's Report
The Publisher’s Report Jon Boyd
IVP Academic has been encouraged to see the truly unique, communal development process that Josh has embraced for this project.
The Typology of Adam and Eve
The Typology of Adam and Eve Greg Cootsona
With important questions before, us how should we approach origins? Let’s keep working at this with our eyes focused, not on Adam and Eve, but on Jesus.
Mission and Values
Mission and Values
Peaceful Science fills a unique role in the conversation, intending to support trustworthy scientists as they engage the public.