Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/philosophy-science-religion-3

Introduction

### Course Review: "Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science" In an era where the boundaries between science, philosophy, and religion often appear to be rigid and contentious, Coursera's course titled "Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science" seeks to navigate the complex interplay among these fundamental modes of thought. This course challenges participants to explore the compatibility of science and religion, encouraging a nuanced understanding of how these fields can coexist, clash, or even complement one another. #### Course Overview This engaging course delves deep into the origins of the universe, the philosophical underpinnings of various religious beliefs, and contemporary debates around evolution and ethics. Each module is led by experts in their respective fields, making the course a rich blend of philosophical discourse and scientific inquiry. The central question posed—should we pick sides, or can we find a harmonious intersection between these disciplines?—frames the learning experience and invites profound contemplation. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Introduction to the Course**: The opening module sets the stage by introducing key concepts and questions participants will explore throughout the course. It establishes a thoughtful framework for the discussions to come. 2. **Science, Religion and the Origins of the Universe**: Presented by Tim Maudlin, this module examines various narratives of the universe's origins. By comparing scientific theories with religious stories, it promotes critical analysis and an appreciation of differing perspectives on one of humanity's most intriguing questions. 3. **Buddhism and Science**: Graham Priest leads this segment, where he thoughtfully outlines Buddhist perspectives and evaluates their compatibility with scientific thought. The module's exploration of how Buddhism intersects with contemporary logic provides valuable insights for those interested in Eastern philosophy and its relevance in today's scientific discourse. 4. **Evolution and Design**: In this module, Kevin Scharp tackles the debate surrounding Intelligent Design and evolutionary theory. He presents the Fine-Tuning Argument for the existence of God while addressing its criticisms, offering a balanced view that prompts participants to think critically about these foundational concepts. 5. **Sin, Suffering and Salvation: Evolution’s Thorny Issues**: Contributed by Bethany Sollereder, this module explores the theological dilemmas that arise from evolutionary theory, particularly within a Christian context. This riveting discussion tackles heavy questions about morality and suffering, encouraging participants to reconcile scientific understanding with theological beliefs. 6. **Human Uniqueness in Science, Theology and Ethics**: David Clough leads this thoughtful investigation into questions of human uniqueness, addressing topics such as our place in the universe and ethical considerations stemming from a theological viewpoint. This module beautifully intertwines scientific inquiry with ethical ramifications, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue. #### Overall Course Experience The "Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science" course is incredibly well-structured, allowing participants to engage with challenging concepts in a logical and coherent manner. Each module is a blend of theoretical and practical discussions, encouraging learners to think critically and form their own opinions. The insights offered by leading academics in the field enrich the learning experience, making each session rewarding. #### Recommendations This course is highly recommended for anyone intrigued by the intersection of philosophy, science, and religion—whether you're a student, an educator, or simply a curious mind. It invites participants not just to learn, but to engage in meaningful discourse, fostering a deeper understanding of both belief systems and scientific principles. Taking this course can be a transformative journey, providing tools to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives. The course also encourages personal reflection, making it a valuable endeavor for those wishing to explore their own viewpoints regarding these profound subjects. So if you’re ready to embark on this intellectual exploration, "Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science" may be the perfect fit for you.

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course

In this module Tim Maudlin, Professor of the Foundations of Physics at New York University (NYU) discusses stories and theories of the origins of the cosmos from the perspectives of various religions, philosophy, and Science. He then explains what our physics tells us and compares this to the origins stories.

In this module Graham Priest, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at City University of New York (CUNY) outlines the background and basic ideas of Buddhism. After considering whether Buddhism is compatible with science, he goes on to explain how some aspects of Buddhist thought are relevant to contemporary logic and science.

In this module Kevin Scharp, Reader in Philosophy at the University of St Andrews introduces one of the most common arguments for Intelligent Design and considers whether it is a genuine scientific competitor to, or can even be made compatible with, evolutionary theory. He then presents the Fine-Tuning Argument for the existence of God and its criticisms.

In this module Bethany Sollereder, Postdoctoral Fellow in Science and Religion at the University of Oxford considers questions that arise in Christian Theology as a result of accepting evolutionary theory.

In this module David Clough, Professor of Theological Ethics at Chester University investigates three ways in which the question of human uniqueness prompt questions at the interface of theology and science. It asks ‘Are we alone in the Universe?’, ‘Where did we come from?’ and ‘Are we just animals?’ before going on to consider the ethical implications of a theological approach that engages these questions seriously.