Chippewa Valley Dialogue on Science and Religion
University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and UWEC Foundation
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Bringing together a diversity of academics, clergy, medical and educational professionals this society facilitates a rigorous, broad-based and productive discussion of science and religion. The group works to address the currently polarized atmosphere surrounding various issues in science and faith, and to foster respectful and informal dialogue. The Society engages local faculty, students, medical professionals, educators, faith leaders, and the general public in discussion of three areas: biology and the soul; spirituality and modern medicine; and the meaning of nature. Activities of the group include regular meetings, reading groups, presentations to local organizations, hosted lectures by nationally recognized speakers, programs for local media, a website and round table discussion forums. Outreach in the local area includes local centers of faith, schools, civic groups, and healthcare centers – seeking to enhance courteous engagement of diverse faith and disciplinary views. Primarily interested in encouraging a depth of exploration that leads to research, the group also hopes to stimulate greater appreciation of the religious and spiritual implications of scientific discovery. The Society also seeks collaboration with existing LSI groups in the region. The University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and the UWEC Foundation provide funds and resources well over the required match.