Invitation Why? Preview Resources
Why?
There are many religious beliefs. Each belief offers a glimpse beyond rational, everyday perception. In the most favorable light, one can understand religious beliefs as creative responses to our individual and collective need for understanding. More commonly however, stories are passed down across generations with little thought and few updates. That is unacceptable today with nearly exponential growth of our knowledge about the natural world. Why just settle for the stale remains of past stories that pass for religion? Instead, let’s examine the frontiers of science to refine our contemporary religious beliefs. New science offers glimpses of previously unknown worlds plus fresh stories to explain what we see. I’d like to pursue this quest with company. Join me?
So let’s ask why I’m doing this to see if it makes sense to you. I was reflecting one day about my explorations in science and noticed one topic at the first moment of time which pairs with another topic that bears on where it is all heading now. Wouldn’t it be cool to connect those points in time 13.8 billions of years apart? But, who to talk with? Thus, I’m looking to start discussion of frontier areas like evolution, emergence and complexity theory. But I have another motivation.
I’ve been a participant in liberal, humanitarian religion for over forty years. In the 19th century, I could have been very proud of myself. I’d have been up to date and on top of it all. In the 21st century, such religions have disconnected from science and rationalism in general. Of that I am ashamed. So, mock me as absurdly ambitious if you want, I’d like to reconnect science and religion.
Ok, that was my take. In conversation with an AI about this, the AI pointed out there is an academic journal devoted to this subject. The journal is called Zygon. I liked the journal’s “Statement of Perspective”. Here is my lightly edited version of the journal’s reason for being. The words in parenthesis are mine:
“(we wish to explore) ways to unite what in modern times has been disconnected—values from knowledge, goodness from truth, religion from science. Traditional religions, which have transmitted wisdom about what is of essential value and ultimate meaning as a guide for human living, were expressed in terms of the best understandings of their times about human nature, society, and the world. Religious expression in our time, however, has not drawn similarly on modern science, which has superseded the ancient forms of understanding. As a result religions have lost credibility in the modern mind. Nevertheless some recent scientific studies of human evolution and development have indicated how long-standing religions have evolved well-winnowed wisdom, still essential for the best life. (Let us then strive to connect) … significant recent scientific discoveries about the world and human nature (and thereby discern) … basic meaning, values, and moral convictions that provide valid and effective guidance for enhancing human life.”
Paul Baker 8/2025