Conference Call

Scientists, teachers, scholars, clergy, students, and activists from around the world will gather at the annual Metanexus Institute conference at Haverford College from June 15-20, 2002. The conference is for all who have a passion for exploring the important questions raised by religion and science. The theme of this year’s conference is intended to raise questions of the role and scope of interpretation in our understanding of the Cosmos and the Divine. Attendees can also get assistance in applying for three-year grants for funding their own science and religion dialogue groups–to keep the conversation going throughout the year. We will grapple with such questions as:

• What kinds of interpretive problems do we encounter in both science and religion?
• Is reality a matter of “interpretation all the way down,” or does there remain “something” which begs to be interpreted and which directs interpretation?
• How “free” may we be in making interpretative choices?
• What is the nature of legitimization and justi€cation of interpretation?
• What are the ethical and political rami€cations of these different interpretative stances?
• Can a deeper sensitivity to interpretation help foster the dialogue between religion and science?

The conference will feature renowned speakers from various faith traditions and a variety of the scienti€c disciplines, bringing a broad, global scope to the discussions and providing fertile ground for dialogue. Additionally, the conference offers a chance for participants to engage in informal discussion in a relaxed atmosphere. There will also be an exciting €eld trip, informative workshops, worship opportunities, original theater, and musical interludes. The conference fee includes dormitory accommodations and gracious meals for the duration of the conference.

Call for Papers

You are encouraged to participate in the conference program by submitting a paper dealing with some aspect of the interpretative nature of science and/or religion. All theological, philosophical, literary, and scientific viewpoints are welcome. Papers should be 20 minutes in reading length (10 minute discussion to follow). Send title, 200 word abstract, 800 word proposal, and 200 word author biography by April 15, 2002, to the address below. Selected papers may be published.

Eric L. Weislogel, Ph.D.
Metanexus Institute
3624 Market Street, Suite 301
Philadelphia, PA 19104
voice: 215.687-4070
email: weislogel@metanexus.net