FRS 003            Sec. 018            (1 unit)            CRN 40253            T  2:10 - 3:00 pm            105 Olson

Science vs. Faith

Instructor: Bryan Enderle, Department of Chemistry, College of Letters and Science

Description: The seminar will discuss the various topics related to science and faith (e.g., religion or spirituality).  We will tackle the following questions:  How can science and faith be integrated?  Can faith be congruent with scientific theories?  Can science fit with the concept of faith?  Can one be a credible scientist and still be a person of faith?  We will discuss science by examining relevant topics in the areas of physics, chemistry, and biology as they relate to faith.  We will look at how some of the issues between science and faith overlap.  Students do not need a strong background in either science or faith. Goals for student learning: students will become aware of the various topics surrounding the spheres of science and faith; students will have the skills to discuss and understand issues related to science and faith; students with science majors will be able to approach faith through inductive reasoning (scientific method), yet understand nuances of faith that are not scientifically bound; students of faith will be able to approach science by understanding the areas of agreement, disagreement, and moot points towards faith; and students of a faith background will develop a more positive attitude towards science and vice versa.

Format: The course will meet for 1 hour per week (1 unit course). The time will be used for whole group and small group (3-4 students) discussion. The instructor will facilitate discussion of the whole group and teach necessary scientific material. Grading: Percentage breakdown of assignments: 25% = Preparation for class through assigned readings.  25% = Weekly reflection papers (one-page) on the material discussed during the previous lecture.  These papers are due at the next class; 25% = Attendance; and 25% = Class Participation.  The student should be prepared to interact over the material with the whole class and in smaller groups.

About the Instructor: Bryan Enderle has been a Lecturer and Lab Coordinator in the Department of Chemistry at UC Davis for 5 years.  He primarily teaches the large general chemistry classes for underclassmen.  His scientific interests are in synthesis and characterization of organometallic catalysts.  His educational interests are in developing more useful teaching methodologies and example chemical demonstrations to aid in student learning.  Bryan also has completed graduate theological coursework and has an interest in systematic theology.