The tension between religion and science is longstanding, but yesterday Rev. Philip Hefner tried to bridge that gap in a lecture entitled "Created to be Creators."
Hefner, an ordained Lutheran pastor, has authored several books and articles on religion and natural sciences. He also serves as senior fellow at the Metanexus Institute, a Philadelphia-based organization that promotes dialogue and discussion of issues pertaining to science and religion.
In his introduction, Metanexus President Solomon Katz called Hefner a "theologian's theologian" and "great crown jewels" for his contributions to religion and science.
Hefner used yesterday's talk, the first in a series entitled "By Nature Creators: Coming to Terms with Human Nature Today," to outline the goals for the series.
He explained he would be focusing on the capabilities and possibilities of humans as creators, discussing the fundamental challenge that we face as creators. Hefner cautioned his audience not to mistake his theory of humans as creators for "moral exhortation" or a "strategic plan for human creativity," but said he would present it as a personal narrative or memoir.
The convergence of science, experience and crisis today makes the issue topical, he suggested.
"We often gain clarity about ourselves when we are in crisis," Hefner said.
He explained this crisis as "our technological-driven culture dominating the planet.... We are going through dislocations."
This technology is not always a negative, he said, noting it often improves every aspect of daily life.
He went on to explain that humans are losing the traditional view of themselves as superior beings able to exploit nature. It is now time to examine the "constructive critical consequences," he said.
He added that in this context of crisis, conversations between religion and science can now take place.
The talk was warmly received by the audience.
"It was a really well-informed multi-disciplinary approach to the challenges and crisis of living in our culture and society today," sleep technologist Matt Anastasi said.
Some noted the importance of a pastor speaking in an academic setting.
"It is time for the reunion of nature and science that is necessary for human kind," attendee Lynne Payne said. "And it is time for academia to realize lay folk also have a voice. My prayer is the mind of academia will be more open to hearing the wisdom of lay people."
The lecture took place at the soon-to-be-dedicated Steinhardt Hall. Hefner commented that the "symbolism of having this nexus right at the heart of an institution connected to the religious community is very important."
