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Journal News (Theology and Science)
The Inside Scoop
Network News
New STARS Program Begins Recruitment Phase
Science and Transcendence: Advanced Research Series
Science and the Quest for Ultimate Reality
CTNS 's new $2.8 million 4-year program, Science and Transcendence: Advanced Research Program (STARS) is in full swing. As you may have read in the previous CTNS E-News , this new program will sponsor research by highly promising, small, interdisciplinary teams about the ways science, in light of philosophical and spiritual reflection, points towards the nature, character and meaning of ultimate reality.
Recruitment Phase
Program Director, Dr. Dennis Hair states, “I'm looking forward to traveling to various academic institutions to meet potential candidates for this exciting, interdisciplinary research program. We anticipate that this program will appeal to scientists who wish to connect their research
with questions of ultimacy, and will result in new collaborative research teams, and ground-breaking publications in this field.”
During the week of November 14-17, Hair will be meeting with scholars and acquiring referrals for potential applicants. Prior to attending the AAR/SBL annual meetings, Hair will visit Princeton, Columbia University, Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, the University of Connecticut, Harvard, Boston University, the University of Rochester, and Rochester Institute of Technology.
In January 2006, Hair is planning to make a 3-week recruiting trip throughout Asia . No doubt his fluency in Mandarin will be a great asset to this recruiting trip.
Research Grants
Research grants totaling $1,300,000 will be awarded on a highly competitive basis for STARS research. These grants will support stellar interdisciplinary teams consisting of one or more scientists and at least one humanities scholar (philosopher, religious studies scholar, theologian, etc.). Priority will be given to highly promising scientists who have not yet worked in this type of interdisciplinary research. Five research grants of $100,000 each will be made available to these teams with the possibility of two teams being renewed at $200,000 each. To assist in developing their full research proposals and/or undertaking initial research, twenty planning grants of $20,000 will be the first grants awarded. Visit www.ctns.org/stars/grants.html for details.
Conferences to Support Interdisciplinary Team Formation
Conferences to help candidates apply for planning and research grants will be a key component of this innovative program. STARS will convene three conferences at a resort location in the Caribbean in January 2007. These conferences will showcase foundational discoveries and theories in physics, cosmology, and biology and will be led by internationally distinguished scientists who will point to ways in which these theories and discoveries relate to our understanding of ultimate reality. Each conference will allow ample time for formal and informal discussions. The number of participants will be kept low to help facilitate networking and interdisciplinary dialogue. It is our hope that the conference topics, setting, and participant mix will provide a catalytic template for the formation of highly-motivated and visionary interdisciplinary teams. The conferences are scheduled during Winter break 2007 to facilitate attendance for scholars.
Conference topics and speakers, application criteria and forms will be available online by January 15, 2006 (www.ctns.org/stars/conferences.html). Completed conference applications are due May 15, 2006 and the judges' decision will be announced July 1, 2006, allowing winners time to make arrangements to attend the conferences the following January.
Email Updates
Interested individuals and potential applicants may sign up now to receive timely email notices with current program information, such as newly announced speakers, conference logistics, and grant details. To subscribe, visit www.ctns.org/stars/feedback.html or email: ctns-stars@ctns.org with “subscribe” in the subject line.
Board of Advisors
The STARS board of advisors includes many “stars” in academia. Included thus far are:
Francisco Ayala
John D. Barrow
Philip Clayton
Paul Davies
George F.R. Ellis
Medhi Golshani
Chris Isham
Nancey Murphy
John Polkinghorne
Mark A. Richards
Pauline Rudd
William Stoeger, S.J.
Trinh Xuan Thuan
Charles Townes
For biographies of the Advisors, visit www.ctns.org/stars.
STARS Program Staff
The STARS staff is eager to assist you in any way. The program is led by Principal Investigator, Robert John Russell and Program Director, Dennis W. Hair and supported by Program Administrator, Anne E. Badè and Program Assistant, R. Daren Erisman.
For more information on the STARS program, visit the website: www.ctns.org/stars, email: ctns-stars@ctns.org or call 510-848-2350 between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm PDT.
STARS is funded by a grant from the John Templeton Foundation.
Joint Science and Religion Hospitality Suite Reception at AAR/SBL
If you are attending the AAR/SBL meetings in Philadelphia , you are invited to the Science & Religion Hospitality Suite hosted by CTNS, Institute on Religion in an Age of Science and the Zygon Center on Religion and Science.
It will take place on Saturday, November 19, 2005 from 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel in Commonwealth C. Presentations by each organization will begin at 8:00 pm. Stop by for some refreshments, to hear from these organizations and to meet others interested in science and religion.
CTNS Director, Robert J. Russell Presents Paper at STOQ International Conference
During the week of November 9-11, Bob Russell is lecturing at an international conference in Rome and attending the committee meetings. The conference is sponsored by the new program, "Science, Theology and the Ontological Quest"(STOQ) and funded by the John Templeton Foundation. His lecture, “Infinity in Science, Theology and Philosophy,” analyzes the ways Cantor's notion of infinity reshapes our theological discussion of the attributes of God compared with their traditional formulation in light of infinity in Greek mathematical and philosophical thought. The goal of STOQ is to develop new courses and conference programs on science and theology for the four Pontifical universities in Rome—the Lateran University, the Gregorian University, Regina Apostolorum and the Pontifical Athenaeum—under the rubric of the Pontifical Council for Culture.
Joint CTNS -KIATS Research Conference in Planning Stage
Plans are underway for a unique two-day conference to be held at the Graduate Theological Union Board Room on February 24 and 25, 2006 with the Korean Institute for Advanced Theological Studies (KIATS).
Dr. Bob Russell, Dr. Jaehyun Kim from Korea, along with DooHee Lee, a GTU student, are coordinating the Friday CTNS-hosted science and theology research conference. About a dozen scholars from Korea will be invited to participate in this research conference, along with local Korean scholars. We are pleased that James Donahue, the GTU president will offer a welcome, followed by lectures by Ted Peters, Bob Russell, Jaehyun Kim, Yoon Koo-Dong and others.
Following the Friday conference, the public is invited to a reception at 6:00 pm at the Badè Museum on the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) campus nearby. We anticipate that the winning CTNS 2005 Graduate Student Fellows in science and religion will be announced that evening.
The Saturday portion of the KIATS conference will offer a venue for networking and dialog among the scholars from Korea, participants from local Korean organizations and Korean-American pastors.
Shipping this month is Volume 3, Number 3 (November 2005) of CTNS 's peer-reviewed journal, Theology and Science. CTNS members receive both the printed and online volumes.
Editorial
Fraser Watts, "Theology and Science"
V. V. Raman, "Scientific Reductionism and Holism: Two Sides of the Perception of Reality"
Dialogue
Alan H. Batten, "A Religiously Partisan Science? Responses to Golshani and Stenmark"
Articles
Peter Hampson, "Cultural Psychology and Theology: Partners in Dialogue"
Andreas Losch, "Our World is more than Physics: A Constructive–Critical Comment on the Current Science and Theology Debate"
Christopher L. Fisher, "Animals, Humans and X-Men: Human Uniqueness and the Meaning of Personhood"
Amos Yong, "Discerning the 'Spirit(s)' in the Natural World: Toward a Typology of Spirit in the Religion and Science Conversation"
Arthur O. Ledoux, "A Green Augustine: On Learning to Love Nature Well"
Book Reviews
Niels Henrik Gregersen, ed. From Complexity to Life: On the Emergence of Life and Meaning . Reviewed by Joseph A. Bracken, S.J.
David Sloan Wilson. Darwin 's Cathedral. Reviewed by John J. Carvalho IV.
Alan G. Padgett. Science and the Study of God: A Mutuality Model for Theology and Science. Reviewed by Ernest L. Simmons.
Ted Peters and Martinez Hewlett. Evolution From Creation to New Creation: Conflict, Conversation, and Convergence . Reviewed by Thomas F. Tracy.
Terence L. Nichols. The Sacred Cosmos: Christian Faith and the Challenge of Naturalism. Reviewed by Patricia A. Williams.
Scholars wishing to submit articles for consideration to Theology and Science may contact the Managing Editor, Jamie Haag by emailing theology-science@ctns.org or by writing to Theology and Science, CTNS, 2400 Ridge Rd., Berkeley, CA 94709. If you are interested in writing a book review, contact Nathan Hallanger, Book Review Editor, via email: bookreviews@ctns.org or call 510-848-8152.
Please send editorial comments or suggestions to: theology-science@ctns.org. For more information visit www.ctns.org/publications.html or call the CTNS Publications office at 510-848-8152 between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm PDT. (Note the new number).
2005-2006 CTNS Graduate Student Fellowship
CTNS announces the 2005-2006 competition for the CTNS Graduate Student Fellowship for GTU doctoral students pursuing research in theology and science. Students in any Area of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) doctoral program whose research focuses on theology and science are eligible to apply. This year two awards of $500 each will be made: one for a student who is working on their comprehensive exams at an advanced level (the equivalent of the “special comprehensive exams” in the Area of Systematic and Philosophical Theology) and one who has finished their comprehensive exams and is working on their dissertation or dissertation proposal. The awards will be given on the basis of merit: students must clearly demonstrate their ability to do promising research on issues of theology and science.
Application: Students should submit their curriculum vitae , a sample of their best writing in theology and science, and a statement of 1000 words about their research topic and methodology.
The application must be submitted to the CTNS office or to director@ctns.org before 5:00 pm on Monday, February 6, 2006 to be considered for the award. Please include three copies of all submitted material. The awards will be announced during a special reception following the CTNS/KIATS conference on the evening of February 24, 2006 at the Badè museum on the PSR campus.
Questions should be addressed to Professor Robert John Russell at director@ctns.org.
 Whitney Bauman |
At the end of October, CTNS bid farewell to Whitney Bauman as Managing Editor of Theology and Science . The journal's first Managing Editor, Whitney held that position for three years. A GTU doctoral student, he now plans to work full-time on his dissertation, hoping to complete it by the summer of 2006. We will miss you Whitney and good luck! |
 L to R. James Haag, Bob Russell, Nathan Hallanger. Not pictured, Ted Peters. |
Filling the shoes of Managing Editor is James (Jamie) Haag. A third year doctoral student in science and theology, Jamie has been serving as Book Review Editor for over one year, previously serving as Assistant Book Review Editor. Congratulations, Jamie! Nathan Hallanger has added to his job portfolio the role of Book Review Editor. Also a doctoral student in science and theology, Nate is already familiar with Theology and Science and with many new books emerging in the science and religion field. Along with Co-Editors, Bob Russell and Ted Peters, this new team has great things planned for Volume 4 in 2006. |
 Melissa Moritz |
Theology and Science distribution would not be possible without the efforts of Membership Coordinator, Melissa Moritz. Melissa handles many aspects of CTNS membership from sending out membership reminders, corresponding with members, and keeping track of the CTNS membership database, to sending subscriber information and corresponding with Theology and Science publisher, Taylor and Francis, Routledge and the online access provider, MetaPress. |
| New Staff | |
 Eric Metoyer |
Eric Metoyer began in September as the CTNS Accounting Specialist. As a new student at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific (CDSP), Eric is able to juggle his part-time work at CTNS along with his course work. Eric has an extensive history of accounting work for Bechtel Corporation. |
 Joshua Moritz |
In November, CTNS welcomed Joshua Moritz. As a second year doctoral student in science and theology, and with experience as managing editor of Dialog: A Journal of Theology, he brings a wealth of knowledge to CTNS as Publications Research Assistant. Joshua is working with Bob Russell as Bob works to bring two new books to publication. |
CTNS Sponsored Courses at the Graduate Theological Union -2006
Spring 2006
STHS 5112, History of Theology: 1965-Today
Tuesdays 2:10 to 5:00 pm (Begins January 31, 2006)
Prof. Robert John Russell (CTNS) and Prof. Ted Peters (PLTS/ CTNS)
An intensive reading course with lecture and discussion on Roman Catholic and Protestant Theologians from Vatican II to the present, with special attention to the task, method, and context of theology. Required of Systematic Theology and Philosophical Theology doctoral students and recommended for advanced master's level students.
STSP 4600, Christian Theology and Natural Science
Thursdays 12:40-3:30pm
Prof. Robert Russell and R. Daren Erisman (CTNS/GTU)
Robert Russell and Daren Erisman and are co-teaching a course designed for middle to upper level MDiv/MA students that have some background in theology and who are seeking to familiarize themselves with the issues between the natural sciences and theology. A major goal of this course is for theological students to garner a greater comfort with and appreciation for the sciences and for the scientific community, particularly as scientists are involved in the life of the church.
These courses are available for registered graduate students through the Graduate Theological Union and its member seminaries.
As a courtesy, CTNS is reproducing notices sent by organizations in the science and religion dialogue. Below are two news notices for your perusal.
New offer from Science & Theology News:
Subscribe for 2-years, and receive free book, Species of Origin.
Discover the premier monthly newspaper reporting the latest research findings, dialogue, and opportunities in the rapidly-evolving fields of science & religion, and spirituality & health. Enjoy discussion from religious leaders, medical doctors, scientists, policy makers, and more. You would have to read dozens of periodicals and journals to come close to the depth and breadth of coverage found in Science & Theology News.
Subscribe now for 2-years to Science & Theology News for just $21, and receive a free copy of editor and physics professor Karl Giberson's highly-acclaimed book Species of Origin: America's Search for a Creation Story, described as "superb and highly readable accounts of modern American debates over creation." (The book alone retails for $24.95.)
Or if you prefer , try Science & Theology News' free 4-issue subscription and owe nothing. Sign up for the free subscription at www.stnews.org , or call 1-866-363-2306 and mention code V50803 to get free book with 2-year paid subscriptions. Makes a great gift!
Conference Call for Papers
The International Society for the Study of Religion, Nature, and Culture invites you to submit paper and session proposals for the Inaugural Conference of the International Society for the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture, to be held at the University of Florida , in Gainesville , 6-9 April 2006.
The mission of the Society is to promote critical, interdisciplinary inquiry into the relationships among human beings and their diverse cultures, environments, and religious beliefs and practices.
For more information on the conference and paper criteria, visit:
http://www.religionandnature.com/society/news/ConferenceCall.pdf
Please send all paper and panel proposals to Laura Hobgood-Oster as soon as possible and no later than 15 January 2006: hoboster@southwestern.edu
Feedback
We'd like to hear from You. We would appreciate your comments about this E-News via email or via written letter.
Bonnie Johnston, Editor
Melissa Moritz, Copy Editor
CTNS
2400 Ridge Rd.
Berkeley, CA 94709 USA
Email: ctnsinfo@ctns.org
510-848-8152
fax. 510-848-2535
www.ctns.org
