Florida Center for Science and Religion

Florida Center for Science and Religion

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Florida Southern College
Lakeland, Florida

The Florida Center for Science and Religion began its work with the participation of students and members of faculty from FSC in religion, biology, philosophy, chemistry, clergy representatives, a representative from local public schools, and members of the surrounding community. In addition, the Center has formed a consortium with institutions throughout central Florida with an eye on the entire state. The society offers a website, a quarterly electronic newsletter, monthly meetings for planning, reading and discussion, and featured “member lectures” to stimulate dialogue. Each year the Center sponsors two events – a public weekly lecture series and an annual meeting devoted to a deep exploration of selected topics in science and religion and designed to promote discussion among students, the community, and the academy in central Florida. Lecture series concentrate on a fourfold plan including foundational issues, case studies and illustrations, theological and ethical perspectives, and panel discussions. To increase diversity and membership, the yearly meeting invite papers from academic researchers and students, as well as professionals in healthcare, counseling, education, and clergy. Topics for consideration include stem cell research, mental illness, cosmology, spirituality and wellness, evolution, and euthanasia. Matching funds are provided by the Office of Academic Life, the Office of Advancement, the Division of Natural Sciences, the Humanities Division, the Department of Biology, and the Department of Philosophy and Religion of Florida Southern College.