Tillich Today

Can Science and Religion Find Common Ground? with Rabbi Geoff Mitelman

Mar 29, 2025
Rabbi Geoff Mitelman, the founding director of Sinai and Synapses, dives deep into the interplay between science and religion. He emphasizes the benefits of constructive disagreement, advocating for mutual understanding across differing beliefs. The conversation explores how communal practices in Judaism can adapt with scientific inquiry, linking identity and morality. Mitelman also addresses the complexities of Jewish identity and contemporary Zionism, highlighting the importance of nuanced dialogue in fostering peace and social justice.
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INSIGHT

Religion's Core Purpose

  • Religion is not just about believing in certain entities.
  • It explores existential human questions, like our identity, actions, and responsibilities.
ADVICE

Engaging Religious Discussions

  • Instead of asking if someone believes in God, ask what they believe about God.
  • This fosters a deeper, more open conversation and avoids "gotcha" questions.
INSIGHT

Source of Conflict

  • Science and religion are often perceived as conflicting because they are viewed as a true/false dichotomy.
  • Judaism focuses more on practical ethics (good/bad, right/wrong) rather than philosophical truth.
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