Morningside Heights Dialogue on Science and Religion
Center for the Study of Science and Religion
Columbia University
New York, New York
This three-fold proposal involves Columbia faculty, area faculty, and the surrounding community in bridging “the gap between the academy and the community by facilitating science and religion dialogue on three levels.” The first tier involves the development of an advisory committee, broadly representative of faculties of religion and the sciences, which explores the development of new curricula, “Science and Religion, East and West.” In Morningside Heights, a group of faculty and clergy meets monthly to discuss “Religious Experience and Professional Development” in relation to religious autobiography and professional success. Reading and discussion focuses on practical application and the creation of a “novel community of neighbors from surrounding institutions.” Themes to be discussed are chosen by the group and include science and scriptural traditions, and social, medical, and environmental ethics. In the light of the events of September 11, this plan also involves the development of community education programs, with a focus on prevention and intervention utilizing religion, health education, and psychology to bring together an informed community of clergy and other community leaders. Matching funds are provided by the center for the Study of Religion and Science at Columbia University.