You are invited to submit an abstract (oral or poster) to the following GSA theme session by July 14th. See the GSA web page for the electronic abstract submission forms (
http://www.geosociety.org). If your GSA presenter's plate is already full, please come by the session anyway to hear some excellent presentations and lively discussion. Current plans are for an evening reception as well--watch for details in October.
Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Seattle, November 2-5, 2003
Session # 39HISTORY AND FUTURE OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE GEOSCIENCES AND RELIGION: LITIGATION, EDUCATION, RECONCILIATION?
Scientific Categories: Geology Education, History of Geology, Paleontology/Paleobotany
Rationale: Geoscientists, particularly those involved in education, have often encountered opposition from religious organizations and religiously-motivated individuals. People of faith (including practicing geologists) have often felt threatened by scientists and/or their discoveries as well. This session will examine the recent and more ancient history of some of these interactions, with the intention of putting the current situation in perspective and providing insight that may help reduce conflict and open more constructive dialogue in the future. Because all of geoscience education must take place in the context of the larger society, it is important for educators to be respectful of religious beliefs of students and colleagues, while still being able to present clearly and fully the scientific merits of modern geology.
Session Description: Do you have experience in the evolution-creation wars? This session will examine how they started, major battles, and what hope there is for peace in the near future. Presentations by scientists (religious or not), educators, historians, and theologians are welcome.Invited Speakers: Eugenie Scott-National Center for Science Education, Jeff Greenberg/Steve Moshier-Wheaton College, Keith Miller-Kansas State, Randy Maddox-Seattle Pacific University (Theology Dept.)
Convener: John F. Bratton.
Coastal and Marine Geology Program
U.S. Geological Survey
384 Woods Hole Rd.
Woods Hole, MA 02543
Phone: 508-457-2254
Fax: 508-457-2310
email: jbratton@usgs.gov
http://woodshole.er.usgs.gov/