LFU:online

Understanding of what science is, understanding of what religion is; familiarity with the key debates around science and religion, and the ability to articulate one’s own viewpoint on these debates.

Science and religion are often thought to be in tension. Some think that in our modern day and age one cannot believe in religious myths, but only in the results of science, which is our best means of learning about the world. Others, however, regard religion as a non-negotiable and decide to reject science instead. But are these two ways of understanding and relating to reality at odds? We will first discuss what science and religion are, and then, on this basis, whether and to what extent the one excludes, or has room for, the other. Big issues are at stake here: If a commitment to science does make us reject religion, we forfeit a way to make transcendent meaning of life. If a commitment to religion makes us reject science, we risk falling into traps like climate-change denial. We will discuss whether science and religion can co-exist peacefully as ways of understanding reality.

Weekly written exercises

written exercises (see above)

will be announced

The seminar will be as beginner-friendly as possible. However, this is a Masters-level course in philosophy, so be aware that you may have a little catching up to do.

The classes will NOT be recorded, in order to leave as much free room as possible for discussing.

This course will be offered on-site next winter semester.