136-260 God and the Natural Sciences

Available at second and third year, except in science (second year only). For science third year see 136-360 God and the Natural Sciences (Science 3). Students who have completed 136-360 God and the Natural Sciences (Science 3) are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 75 points of first year study across any discipline area.

This subject studies the complex relationship between religion, theology, and the natural sciences. Theological concerns guided the science of Kepler, Newton and many other early scientists. They held that studying the Universe demonstrated the attributes of God. After Darwin, this view was replaced by radically different ones: to some science and religion are necessarily antagonistic, to others they belong to different realms. We examine this change, the reasoning (good and bad) behind it and its residues, including some modern debates: 'Anthropic Principle', multiple universes, and such scientific/philosophical issues such as Why are the laws of nature what they are? Finally, we explore the relationship between the 'personal God' of religious experience and the 'philosophers' God' posited to explain facts about the natural world.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• be able to conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising a 750 word paper 19% (due week 5) and a paper of 1250 words 31% (due mid-semester) and a paper of 2000 words 50% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available. Other books will be required.