Jonathan Jong & Sarah Lane Ritchie: Can Scientists study gods, souls, and rituals?
Jan 27, 2020
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Join Jonathan Jong, a cognitive and evolutionary anthropology expert, and Sarah Lane Ritchie, a scholar in theology and science, as they dive into the crossroads of science and religion. They explore psychology's role in understanding beliefs about gods and souls, and critique misconceptions in the discipline. The discussion also considers cognitive biases in shaping perceptions of divinity, delves into the philosophical debates about desire and faith, and emphasizes the need for humility in navigating the complex interplay between personal experience and institutional frameworks.
The podcast explores the intersection of science and religion, highlighting diverse scholarly perspectives on cognitive science and religious belief.
Participants discuss the influence of scientific discoveries on traditional religious perspectives, particularly regarding divine action and miracles.
The hosts advocate for community engagement in exploring complex themes by inviting listener questions about the interplay between religion and science.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of pastoral leadership in assisting congregations navigate contemporary scientific understandings while remaining grounded in faith traditions.
Deep dives
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Engagement with Academic Discourses
The conversation involves an academic exchange about the relationship between science and religion, featuring scholars who bring diverse perspectives. Dr. Jonathan Jung, a guest lecturer at Oxford, engages in discussions about cognitive science and religious belief, offering insights from his dual role as a scientist and parish priest. This intersectionality allows for deeper exploration into how religious beliefs can coexist with scientific understanding. The discussion is enriched by the experiences and backgrounds of the participants.
Understanding the Intersection of Science and Faith
The dialogue touches on the complexities of how science influences religious belief and vice versa. The participants wrestle with the implications of scientific discoveries for the nature of faith, discussing how scientific inquiry can sometimes challenge traditional religious perspectives. Tensions arise around the topics of divine action and miracles, where participants express varying views on how these elements interrelate with scientific explanations. Ultimately, the conversation seeks to navigate the nuanced terrain of belief within the context of contemporary scientific discourse.
Encouraging Audience Participation
The host encourages listeners to engage by submitting their own questions about the interplay between religion and science. As many audience members are new to these discussions, this invitation fosters a participatory approach, allowing for tailored dialogue in future episodes. By inviting questions and topics, the show aims to create a community-centered exploration of complex themes. This interaction fosters a deeper understanding of the material and a more personalized listening experience.
Online Learning Opportunities
A significant focus of the episode is on the availability of online degree programs in science, philosophy, and religion. The speakers highlight their affiliation with the University of Edinburgh and the various advanced degree offerings, such as master's and Ph.D. programs. This educational aspect not only emphasizes the importance of academic rigor in understanding these topics but also opens doors for interested listeners to pursue further studies. The promotion of such programs indicates a desire to cultivate informed dialogue through formal education.
The Role of Pastoral Leadership in Scientific Discourse
The discussion acknowledges the role of pastoral leadership in guiding congregations through complex scientific and religious conversations. Participants reflect on how clergy can support their communities in grappling with modern scientific understandings while remaining rooted in faith traditions. This partnership between pastoral care and academic inquiry is vital for fostering a robust theological response to contemporary issues. By bridging these areas, the conversation highlights the necessity for church leaders to engage with both scripture and science thoughtfully.
Exploring Theological Frameworks
A significant part of the dialogue revolves around challenging traditional theological frameworks in light of scientific advancements. Participants discuss how certain metaphysical assumptions underlie current conversations in theology and science, leading to debates about divine action and intervention. This critical examination encourages a re-evaluation of established beliefs and pushes for the integration of scientific insights into theological discussions. The goal is to create a more coherent understanding of how faith and science can inform one another.
Behind many Science and Religion conversations are a number of shaping, but often ignored questions. In this episode Jonathan and Sarah join me for a seriously nerdy and revealing dialogue about the nature and limits of science, the character of religious phenomena, the role of philosophy, naturalism(s), theology's place at the table, and much more. On top of all being friends, we each occupy a different network of answers to the questions we tackle. If you enjoy this half as much as I did you will have a wonderful time.
Dr. Jonathan Jong is a Research Fellow at Coventry University, and Deputy Director of the Brain, Belief and Behaviour group there. He is also a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Cognitive and Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Oxford. Most of his current research is on the psychology of religion and the philosophical issues associated with the scientific study of religion. The Doctor is also a Reverend and Associate Priest at the parish church of St Mary Magdalen, Oxford and the Web Editor for the St Mary Magdalen School of Theology
Dr. Sarah Lane Ritchie is Lecturer in Theology and Science at the University of Edinburgh. She has a PhD in Science and Religion from the University of Edinburgh, where her doctoral work focused on the question of divine action in the human mind. A Michigander by birth, Sarah also holds a BA in Philosophy and Religion from Spring Arbor University, an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary, and an MSc in Science and Religion from the University of Edinburgh. Her published work focuses on questions arising from the intersection of theology, philosophy, and the various brain-related sciences. Sarah’s research interests include divine action, philosophy of mind, naturalism, cognitive science of religion, and the psychology of belief formation.
