Improbable planet : how Earth became humanity's home

"With his typical clarity, insight, and precision, Ross shows how recent scientific findings undermine naturalism while simultaneously providing evidence that there is a plan, purpose, and design in the universe."--Sean McDowell, professor, Biola University; bestselling author of over fifteen books, including A New Kind of Apologist "In Improbable Planet, Ross holds readers' hands, leading them in a readable yet gently technical format through a compelling layer-upon-layer argument for the distinctiveness of the planet on which we live and of the preparation for inimitable life on Earth. The text is replete with references from primary scientific articles in some of the most well-respected journals, underscoring the highest academic rigor taken in substantiating the factual claims. Only the shamefully flippant could dismiss this book as being a faith-filled presentation rather than the scholarly work it represents."--James M. Tour, T. T. and W. F. Chao Professor of Chemistry, Rice University; R&D magazine's 2013 Scientist of the Year The Latest Scientific Discoveries Point to an Intentional Creator

Most of us remember the basics from science classes about how Earth came to be the only known planet that sustains complex life. But what most people don't know is that the more thoroughly researchers investigate the history of our planet, the more astonishing the story of our existence becomes. The number and complexity of the astronomical, geological, chemical, and biological features recognized as essential to human existence have expanded explosively within the past decade. An understanding of what is required to make possible a large human population and advanced civilizations has raised profound questions about life, our purpose, and our destiny. Are we really just the result of innumerable coincidences? Or is there a more reasonable explanation?

This fascinating book helps nonscientists understand the countless miracles that undergird the exquisitely fine-tuned planet we call home--as if Someone had us in mind all along. The Latest Scientific Discoveries Point to an Intentional Creator Most of us remember the basics from science classes about how Earth came to be the only known planet that sustains complex life. But what most people don't know is that the more thoroughly researchers investigate the history of our planet, the more astonishing the story of our existence becomes. The number and complexity of the astronomical, geological, chemical, and biological features recognized as essential to human existence have expanded explosively within the past decade. An understanding of what is required to make possible a large human population and advanced civilizations has raised profound questions about life, our purpose, and our destiny. Are we really just the result of innumerable coincidences' Or is there a more reasonable explanation' This fascinating book helps nonscientists understand the countless miracles that undergird the exquisitely fine-tuned planet we call home-as if Someone had us in mind all along Contents Cover Title Page Copyright Page Endorsement Page Acknowledgments 1. Why Ask “Why”? 2. The Way the World Is 3. Essential Construction Materials 4. The Right Neighborhood 5. Site Preparations 6. Not Quite Ready 7. Ready for the Foundation 8. Construction Begins below Ground 9. Up to Ground Level 10. Air-Conditioning 11. Invisible Progress 12. Heating and Ventilation 13. The Structure Rises 14. Finishing Touches 15. Ready for Occupancy 16. Why We’re Here Appendix A: Why Not Life on a Moon? Appendix B: Are We Alone in the Universe? Notes Index About the Author Comprehensive overview of Earth's utterly unique history uses the latest scientific discoveries to show how and why a supernatural Creator purposefully fashioned Earth to support a host of intelligent, physical, spiritual beings.