March 22-24, 2013

Westminster College

Aim of Course

This short weekend course is for busy people who would like to obtain a broad introductory overview of the science-religion debate from top speakers in the field, covering topics such as the historical relationship between science and religion, the philosophical issues surrounding the deployment of science in the new atheist critique of religion, the anthropic principle, evolution, interpretation of the Biblical creation texts, and ethical challenges posed by modern science. There will be plenty of opportunity for interactions with speakers during the periods set aside for questions and discussion.

Further information

An Introduction to Science and Religion Poster

Speakers (listed in alphabetical order) and topics

  • John Hedley Brooke : Historical Interactions between Science and Religion
  • Keith Fox : Creation and Evolution
  • Dr Cherryl Hunt : Ethical Challenges in Contemporary Science
  • Revd Dr Ernest Lucas : The Creation Narratives in Genesis 1-3
  • Revd Dr John Polkinghorne KBE FRS: Introduction to Science and Religion; the Anthropic Principle
  • Revd Prof. Keith Ward : Science, Religion and the New Atheism
  • Bob White FRS : Take ten: the religious beliefs of ten famous scientists

Venue

The course will be held at Westminster College, Madingley Rd, Cambridge, CB3 0AA. Click here to obtain further details about the College.

Westminster College is housed in an impressive late 19th century grade II listed building situated in two acres of gardens within easy walking distance of Cambridge City Centre, the celebrated ‘Backs’ and other University Colleges.

Westminster College is on the main ring road within easy access off the M11 and A14 and has limited on-site parking. The College is a short taxi ride from the train and bus stations. Airport coach or train from Stansted Airport (the most convenient airport for Cambridge) takes 30-40 minutes. Location map for Westminster College.

Course Schedule

Friday March 22
6.00 pm Arrival
6.45 pm Dinner
7.45 pm Introduction
8.00 pm Revd Dr John Polkinghorne: An Introduction to Science and Religion
9.00 pm Questions and Discussion
9.30 pm Drinks Reception – Getting to Know You
 

Saturday March 23

8.00 am Breakfast
9.00 am Prof. Bob White FRS: Take ten: the religious beliefs of ten famous scientists
10.00 am Questions and Discussion
10.30 am Coffee Break
11.00 am Revd Dr John Polkinghorne: The Anthropic Principle
12.00 pm Questions and Discussion
1.00 pm Lunch
2.00 pm Revd Prof. Keith Ward: Science, Religion and the New Atheism
3.00 pm Questions and Discussion
3.30 pm Tea Break
4.00 pm Prof. John Hedley Brooke: Historical Interactions between Science and Religion
5.00 pm Questions and Discussion
7.00 pm Gala Dinner
8.30 pm Panel Discussion – Questions and Discussion
9.30 pm Bar and more Discussion
 

Sunday March 24

8.00 am Breakfast
9.00 am Prof. Keith Fox: Creation and Evolution
10.00 am Questions and Discussion
10.30 am Coffee Break
11.00 am Revd Dr Ernest Lucas: The Creation Narratives in Genesis 1-3
12.00 pm Questions and Discussion
1.00 pm Lunch
2.00 pm Dr Cherryl Hunt: Ethical Challenges in Contemporary Science
3.00 pm Questions and Discussion
3.30 pm Tea Break
4.00 pm Depart