ATS2758 Religion, philosophy, science

Religion, philosophy and science are three modes of thinking about the world and understanding the role humanity plays in it. Often considered to be separate and competing fields of human inquiry, throughout history they often overlapped and complemented each other. Babylonians were keen observes of the celestial phenomena, but their interest in astronomy was religiously motivated. In a similar manner Plato was a philosopher, but his teachings gave rise to Neoplatonism which was both a philosophical and religious system, moreover one which in medieval times led to alchemy, the beginnings of modern chemistry. This unit familiarises students with the differences and similarities, convergences and departures between religious, philosophical and scientific ways of thinking, key past debates between them and the impact religion has had on the development of philosophy and science. Finally, the unit also offers a critical insight into current issues involving intelligent design, creationism, evolution and Darwinism; quantum physics, matter, causation, divine action and free will; neuroscience and religious experience; and various bioethical dilemmas arising from advancement in technology and medicine.