A critical exploration of science-engaged theology. The student opens to a world of the natural sciences as an illuminating way to inquire into the mind and action of God. The student considers different frameworks for how biology, neuroscience, physics, chemistry, and cosmology reveal Divine action and how it is that the theologian can develop theological perspective through the lens of the natural sciences.
Critically examines different ways in which the empirical sciences can aid in theological knowledge.
Considers the question of whether or not the empirical sciences should or could be a theological source of knowledge in the way that tradition and reason are sources of theological knowledge.
The Bible is the normative standard and ultimate source of all theological knowledge, yet the empirical sciences might illuminate or inform theology in the way that reason and tradition do.
By inquiring into the empirical sciences, one is able to see God’s action and bring to bear how it is that God is still at work in the natural world.
As with all academic disciplines, science and theology is contextual and follows certain conventions in the wider academic guild.
Students interact with and gain the tools to assess issues that are informed by an international set of scholars.
The course concludes with a concrete product of how one empirical discipline could shed light on theology.
Through student interactions, projects, and writing, students develop an appreciation for the empirical sciences as means of interrogating their own faith and theology.
