SU’s Lifelong Learning Institute presents ‘A Religious Scientist Looks at the Universe,’ a discussion on insights of modern science for religion, spirituality Aug. 22

SU’s Lifelong Learning Institute presents ‘A Religious Scientist Looks at the Universe,’ a discussion on insights of modern science for religion, spirituality Aug. 22August 07, 2008Jaime Winne Alvarezjlwinne@syr.edu

The Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) of the Gerontology Center at Syracuse University will present “A Religious Scientist Looks at the Universe,” a lecture and group discussion on insights of modern science for religion and spirituality, on Friday, Aug. 22. The event takes place from 10:30 a.m.-noon at the Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

Scientific study has uncovered a universe of incredible grandeur, remarkable order and surprising comprehensibility, which helps people understand what some have called the “Mind of God.” Carl Rosenzweig, professor of physics and astronomy in SU’s College of Arts and Sciences who has extensive experience in community outreach, will present the lecture and discussion.

Rosenzweig will provide participants with a brief overview of some aspects of scientific knowledge and how this knowledge and the scientific approach can add to the feeling of awe that underlies much of religious and spiritual experience. Topics covered will range from atoms to the solar system to the universe. The floor will also be open for group discussion. The morning promises to be an insightful and thoughtful experience.

There is a $5 fee for the event, which covers annual membership in the LLI. The lecture and discussion are free to current LLI members. Attendees should arrive after 10 a.m. to register. Payment may be made by cash or check made out to the SU Gerontology Center.

The LLI offers courses and events designed for people over age 50. The institute is part of the SU Gerontology Center, which includes 30 faculty members engaged in aging research, education and policymaking. The center hosts scholarly conferences, oversees an undergraduate and graduate certificate in gerontology and works to coordinate and foster interdisciplinary activities relating to gerontology across campus.

For more information, visit http://www.maxwell.syr.edu/cpr/gerontology or contact Martha Bonney at mwbonney@syr.edu or (315) 443-2703.