Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science from Coursera

Philosophy, Science and Religion mark three of the most fundamental modes of thinking about the world and our place in it. Are these modes incompatible? Put another way: is the intellectually responsible thing to do to ‘pick sides’ and identify with one of these approaches at the exclusion of others? Or, are they complementary or mutually supportive? As is typical of questions of such magnitude, the devil is in the details. For example, it is important to work out what is really distinctive about each of these ways of inquiring about the world. In order to gain some clarity here, we’ll be investigating what some of the current leading thinkers in philosophy, science and religion are actually doing.

This course, entitled ‘Religion and Science’, is the third of three related courses in our Philosophy, Science and Religion Online series. The course will address five themes, each presented by an expert in the area.

1. Science, Religion, and the Origin of the Universe (Professor Tim Maudlin, NYU )

2. Buddhism and Science (Professor Graham Priest, CUNY)

3. Evolution and Design (Dr Kevin Scharp, St Andrews)

4. Sin Suffering and Salvation: Evolutions Thorny Issues (Dr Bethany Sollereder, Oxford)

5. Human Uniqueness in Science, Theology, and Ethics (Professor David Clough, Chester)

The first and second courses in the Philosophy, Science and Religion series, 'Science and Philosophy' and 'Philosophy and Religion' were launched in 2017 and you can sign up to these at any time. It is not necessary to have completed these courses to follow this course. However, completing all three courses will give you a broader understanding of this fascinating topic. Look for:

• Philosophy, Science and Religion I: Science and Philosophy - https://www.coursera.org/learn/philosophy-science-religion-1

• Philosophy, Science and Religion II: Philosophy and Religion - https://www.coursera.org/learn/philosophy-science-religion-2

Upon successful completion of all three courses, students will:

(1) Understand the main parameters at stake in the current debate between science and religion.

(2) Have some familiarity with the relevant areas of science that feature in the debate—including cosmology, evolution, and the neurosciences—and will have begun to engage with them conceptually.

(3) Have encountered key philosophical approaches to the interface between science and religion, and will have had the opportunity to engage them in practice.

(4) Have embarked constructively in cross-disciplinary conversations.

(5) Have demonstrated an openness to personal growth through a commitment to dialogue across intellectual and spiritual boundaries.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course

Science, Religion and the Origins of the Universe

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.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Examines religion and science, topics highly relevant to many academic disciplines

Taught by professors recognized for their work in religion and science interface

Develops an open and intellectually responsible approach to science and religion

Provides a comprehensive study of religion and science

Requires no prereq courses so is accessible to a wide audience

Builds a foundation for learners to delve deeper into the religion-science interface

Reviews summary

Exploring religion and science perspectives

According to inferred feedback, learners appreciate the high quality of the lectures delivered by renowned experts from various universities, covering a diverse range of topics at the intersection of religion and science. The course is seen as intellectually stimulating, prompting deep thought on complex philosophical and theological questions. While it is the third in a series, it appears to stand alone effectively. The approach is primarily theoretical and philosophical, requiring engagement with abstract ideas, which some may find challenging but others rewarding. Overall, it provides a solid exploration of key issues in the religion and science debate.

Builds on previous, stands alone.

"It's good that you don't need the first two courses to follow along."

"Fits well as the potential third part of a series if you're taking all three."

"I was curious how it would link to the previous courses but it works fine on its own."

Engages with complex philosophical ideas.

"This course really makes you think deeply about difficult questions."

"Requires careful consideration of abstract philosophical concepts."

"It's not just about scientific facts, but the philosophical arguments too, which I liked."

Explores multiple key interface areas.

"The range of topics, from origins to ethics, was very broad and interesting."

"Appreciated the inclusion of Buddhism alongside Christian theology discussions."

"Liked how challenging subjects like evolution and design were tackled directly."

Lectures by renowned scholars.

"I found the lectures by the various professors to be insightful and well-presented."

"Each module brought a unique expert voice from top institutions."

"Learning from scholars at NYU, CUNY, Oxford was definitely a highlight for me."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science with these activities:

Review Basic Science Concepts

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Refreshing your knowledge of basic science concepts will help you better understand the scientific theories discussed in the course.

Browse courses on Cosmology

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Review textbooks or online resources on key science concepts, such as the Big Bang theory or natural selection.
Read articles or watch videos that explain these concepts in a simplified manner.
Summarize the main ideas and principles of each concept.

Explore Philosophy and Theology Backgrounds

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Reviewing this book will provide a solid foundation for understanding the historical and conceptual relationships between science, religion, and philosophy.

View Some New World on Amazon

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Read the introduction and first two chapters to gain an overview of the field.
Choose three chapters that align with your interests and read them thoroughly.
Summarize the main arguments and perspectives presented in each chapter.

Organize Course Materials

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Organizing your course materials will help you stay on top of the content and easily access relevant information.

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Create a system for organizing notes, assignments, and other materials.
Regularly review and update your materials.
Use different colors, folders, or digital tools to categorize and prioritize materials.

Three other activities

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Delve into the History of Science and Religion

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This activity will deepen your understanding of the historical context in which the relationship between science and religion has evolved.

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Watch a documentary or read an article on the Scientific Revolution and its impact on religious beliefs.
Explore the role of science in the Enlightenment and its influence on religious thought.
Discuss the key figures and ideas that shaped the historical interactions between science and religion.

Analyze Scientific Arguments

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Practicing scientific argument analysis will enhance your ability to evaluate the claims and evidence presented in the course.

Browse courses on Logical Reasoning

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Identify the main argument, claims, and evidence in a scientific paper or article.
Evaluate the validity of the arguments and the strength of the evidence.
Consider alternative explanations and perspectives.

Write a Reflective Essay

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Writing a reflective essay will allow you to synthesize your learning and develop your own perspectives on the relationship between science and religion.

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Choose a specific topic or theme related to the course.
Research and gather relevant information from various sources.
Develop a thesis statement that presents your main argument.
Write a draft of your essay, providing evidence and analysis to support your thesis.
Revise and edit your essay to improve clarity and organization.

Career center

Learners who complete Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Buddhist Chaplain

Buddhist Chaplains provide spiritual guidance and support to Buddhists in various settings, such as hospitals, prisons, and the military. They lead religious services, offer counseling, and teach about Buddhist beliefs and practices. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Buddhist Chaplains because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of suffering, the path to enlightenment, and the bodhisattva ideal, which are all central to Buddhist thought and practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Buddhist Chaplain

Physicist

Physicists are scientists who study the fundamental nature of the universe. They investigate topics such as the origin and evolution of the universe, the nature of matter and energy, and the forces that govern the interactions between particles. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Physicists because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Cosmologist

Cosmologists are scientists who study the origin and evolution of the universe. They use observations of the cosmos to test theories about how the universe began and how it has changed over time. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Cosmologists because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Astronomer

Astronomers are scientists who study the universe beyond Earth. They use telescopes and other instruments to observe and analyze stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial objects. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Astronomers because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Astrophysicist

Astrophysicists are scientists who study the physical properties of stars and other celestial objects. They use telescopes and other instruments to observe and analyze the light, radiation, and other emissions from stars and other celestial objects. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Astrophysicists because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Theology Professor

Theology Professors teach theology to students at colleges and universities. They develop lesson plans, lead discussions, and grade assignments. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Theology Professors because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of God, the existence of evil, and the meaning of life, which are all central to theological inquiry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Theology Professor

Philosophy Professor

Philosophy Professors teach philosophy to students at colleges and universities. They develop lesson plans, lead discussions, and grade assignments. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Philosophy Professors because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of reality, the existence of God, and the meaning of life, which are all central to philosophical inquiry

See salaries and explore the career path for Philosophy Professor

Religious Studies Professor

Religious Studies Professors teach religious studies to students at colleges and universities. They develop lesson plans, lead discussions, and grade assignments. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Religious Studies Professors because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of religion, the history of religion, and the role of religion in society, which are all central to religious studies.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific concepts to the general public. They write articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific discoveries and theories in a clear and engaging way. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Science Writers because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers teach science to students at all levels, from elementary school to college. They develop lesson plans, conduct experiments, and grade assignments. This course on Religion and Science would be helpful for Science Teachers because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe.

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Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and produce news stories for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. They research stories, interview sources, and write articles that inform the public about important issues. This course on Religion and Science would be may be helpful for Journalists because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of scientific evidence, the role of science in society, and the ethical implications of scientific research.

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Museum Educator

Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs for museums and other cultural institutions. They work with visitors of all ages to help them learn about the museum's collections and exhibitions. This course on Religion and Science would be may be helpful for Museum Educators because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of scientific evidence, the role of science in society, and the ethical implications of scientific research.

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Librarian

Librarians help people find and access information. They work in a variety of settings, such as public libraries, school libraries, and academic libraries. This course on Religion and Science would be may be helpful for Librarians because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of scientific evidence, the role of science in society, and the ethical implications of scientific research.

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Science Communicator

Science Communicators communicate complex scientific concepts to the general public. They write articles, books, and other materials that explain scientific discoveries and theories in a clear and engaging way. This course on Religion and Science would be may be helpful for Science Communicators because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of scientific evidence, the role of science in society, and the ethical implications of scientific research.

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Science Policy Advisor

Science Policy Advisors advise policymakers on scientific issues. They help policymakers understand the scientific evidence on a variety of issues, such as climate change, energy, and health care. This course on Religion and Science would be may be helpful for Science Policy Advisors because it provides an overview of the different ways that science and religion have approached questions about the origins of the universe. The course also delves into topics such as the nature of scientific evidence, the role of science in society, and the ethical implications of scientific research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Policy Advisor