Fu Jen Catholic University
Hsinchuang, Taipei

Founded in 2001, to provide a platform for research and teaching in the context of the culture of Taiwan and China, the Center brings together researchers in theology, religious studies, humanities and social sciences with those in the physical and life sciences. While its roots are in the Christian tradition, the Center encourages a dialogue among the adherents of the many religious and philosophical traditions of Taiwan such as Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism and the folk traditions. Four types of activities comprise the plans of this society – interactive conferences, focused seminar groups and guest lecturers; scholarly publication; research and curriculum development. Public events are free and open to the community and advertised through posters and flyers. Topics for consideration include bioethics, religion-science dialogue in China/Taiwan and the West, religion and science in Taiwan’s religious and philosophical traditions, topical discussion of Western and Chinese medicine, environmental ethics and biotechnology, origins, nature of life, evolution theory and emergence. The Center also has a website for announcements and information in both Chinese and English that includes enhanced information for society members. The Center is in the process of collecting popular and scholarly materials on religion and science in Chinese to make available as a library resource for members. Future plans include enhancing the relationship with interested scholars and students from institutions in mainland China, Hong Kong and Singapore. Matching funds are provided by Fu Jen Catholic University.