Professor Macosko, Ph.D. from Princeton University, is internationally recognized for his research in reactive polymer processing. He has also been awarded a Templeton Grant for his innovative course in the relationship of Science and Faith. Barbour sees both similarities and differences between the two ways of forming beliefs, but more similarities than people often think. Science begins with observation of data, religion with religious experiences and sacred stories. Both use imagination to build models and draw analogies.
Science has theories, religion has beliefs.
Barbour says that scientists' theories influence their observation of data. I have never seen one, but there are good reasons for believing in them. Macosko tries to get students to read all sides of the issues in science and faith, including the controversial topic of evolution. He relishes the give and take between those who aren t so sure about Christianity, and those who have grown up believing in the Christian faith. It is this kind of course taught by volunteers who give their time so generously and so well to our ministry efforts at Westminster House which makes me proud to be engaged in campus ministry.