Since the Enlightenment, with its emphasis upon the employment of reason and the scientific method for discovering truth, there have been numerous interactions between science and religion, some positive and some negative. World views held by many practicing Christians have been both challenged and expanded by scientific discoveries leading to new understandings of our cosmos.
 
Some of the most important challenges have arisen because of the development of technologies that have changed our daily lives and that sometimes have led to wrenching ethical decisions. The more theoretical discoveries of science have also encouraged some to question long-held beliefs about the meaning and purpose of human existence. For example, belief that the universe began in a “Big Bang” and that life developed on earth over tens of millions of years supports the conclusion that evolutionary change is the primary mechanism by which the universe has been formed.
 
It is right for persons of faith to wrestle with the significance of such findings. Pressing questions arise about God’s methods and intentions once it is determined that the earth is not the center of the universe, that humans have emerged as part of a chain of simple to more complex creatures, and that humans have existed for only a minute fraction of the history of creation.
 
Often it is believed that science and religion are necessarily and perpetually in conflict, defending contradictory perspectives on reality. This series of lectures by leading scientists, theologians and philosophers provides a positive alternative, giving us insight into how religion and science might coexist and even complement one another in the twenty-first century.
 
About the course
This course is entirely self-paced and hosted by Dr. Francis Collins, former Director of the National Human Genome Research Institute at the National Institute of Health, whose videos in each learning module will introduce speakers and themes. Altogether, there are six learning modules that cover various aspects of the relationship between faith and science. Each learning module includes all the materials you need to reflect upon the topic at hand and contains a combination of videos, readings, quizzes, and ‘points to ponder.’ We encourage all our participants to work through these materials carefully and to complete all the assignments and reflection questions in order to reinforce the learning modules main ideas.
 
Course learning objects
To gain knowledge of scientific and theological terms and concepts used in this course
To gain knowledge about the dichotomous origins and concerns perceived by some between religion and science throughout history
To gain knowledge about the differing ways theology—the study of God, and biology—the study of life, contribute to human life, well-being, and experience
To be able to articulate ways theology—the study of God, and biology—the study of life, can co-exist and resonate in one’s own personal faith and life practice
 
If you have any questions or problems, please email pathways@wesleyseminary.edu.