Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/philosophy-science-religion-2
In a world increasingly driven by scientific advancement and diverse philosophical thought, understanding the complex relationship between these disciplines and religion is more crucial than ever. The Coursera course, “Philosophy, Science and Religion: Philosophy and Religion,” offers a compelling exploration of these fundamental modes of thinking.
This course, taught by esteemed professors like Duncan Pritchard, Sarah Lane Ritchie, John Evans, John Greco, John Schellenberg, Rik Peels, and Mark Alfano, delves into whether philosophy, science, and religion are inherently incompatible or if they can be complementary. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with an introduction that sets the stage for the intellectual journey ahead.
Key modules tackle the intricate connections between brain sciences and religious belief, offering insights from Dr. Sarah Lane Ritchie. Professor John Evans provides a sociological perspective on science and religion in the public realm, examining contemporary debates and highlighting how morality often takes center stage in public discourse, rather than just knowledge claims.
Professor John Greco addresses the challenging topic of religious disagreement, exploring the Problem of Evil and Divine Hiddenness. He adeptly uses social epistemology to shed light on how social location impacts our epistemic positions, offering a nuanced understanding of differing viewpoints.
Professor John Schellenberg introduces the thought-provoking ‘hiddenness argument’ for atheism, critically examining its scope and its relationship with other philosophical and scientific discussions. Dr. Rik Peels tackles the concepts of religious and scientific fundamentalism, dissecting scientism and drawing parallels and distinctions between it and other belief systems.
Finally, Professor Mark Alfano delves into epistemic virtues and vices in both science and religion. His lecture provides a framework for understanding intellectual honesty, humility, and how we process and share knowledge, offering valuable insights into scientific collaboration and the acceptance of testimony regarding miracles.
Overall, “Philosophy, Science and Religion: Philosophy and Religion” is a intellectually stimulating and well-curated course. It doesn’t force you to ‘pick sides’ but rather equips you with the tools to understand the multifaceted dialogue between these vital areas of human thought. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in deepening their understanding of how we make sense of the world, ourselves, and the divine.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/philosophy-science-religion-2