GENS4010 Science and Religion

In many people's minds there is a conflict between religious faith and scientific knowledge. Some of these supposed areas of conflict will be explored, including creation, miracles and suffering, mind and consciousness, and modern ethical problems. A mainly Judaeo-Christian perspective will be used but references to teachings of other religions will be included.

Note: This course will be taught via web delivery.

The topics covered include

• An examination of everyday practice in Science and in Theology
  
• Interactions between Science and Theology in the historical past.
  
• Considerations on the reliability of religious writings.
  
• Scientific and religious attitudes to creation.
  
• Chaos and thinking about God acting in the world.
  
• Evolution.
  
• Providence, free will and suffering.
  
• Prayer and miracles.
  
• Mind, soul and consciousness.
  
• Ethical issues, especially bioethics.
  
• How will the Universe end?

The assessment is as follows:

Students are required to take part in the (non-synchronous) online discussions at least once a week and can be failed if they neglect to do this.

The journal is a more private reflection on matters in the course and other relevant events in the world around us.