Taught by

The search for scientific and social understanding has been the subject of political, spiritual and ethical conflicts for millennia. These conflicts are now, more than ever, struggles for power and control.

Climate change, peace, and social justice: these topics straddle multiple realms of thought and escape simplification. The natural sciences and spiritual traditions share an underlying fascination with creating coherent pictures of reality, attempting to understand, at the most basic levels, what makes the world tick. Although they use very different methods for seeking that understanding, they both seek to make visible what is usually unseen. But these similarities of purpose are often obscured by dramatic disagreements between some scientists and some religious people.

In this program, we will explore the concept of reason as seen from the perspectives of scientific and spiritual traditions. Many people think there are deep disagreements between the teachings of religions and the teachings of modern science. For example, how should we think about the claims of evolutionary theory, fundamentalist religious movements, and the so-called New Atheist movement? We will inquire as to whether there are rational principles that can decide these competing claims. How do social and cultural forces shape modern science? Can religion be rational? Can science be irrational? Students will gain knowledge in philosophy, religious studies, science, and current affairs through lecture, seminar, and workshops.

We will visit some local tribal communities and learn about the deep spiritual connections these communities have to the land and the plant and animal life found there.

Quarters

Fall Open

Location and Schedule

Final Schedule and Room Assignment

• Fall

Campus Location

Olympia

Time Offered

Day