Challenging Assumptions: Religious Faith, Genetic Science, Human Dignity

Conference Description

“Challenging Assumptions” is the culminating event for a two year NIH ELSI* program, Faith Forum on Genetics.** The subject of this conference is the variety of ways that genetic science (along with the technology it promises) and religious self-understanding interact. It is sometimes assumed that if we can find a genetic basis for morality and spirituality then religious belief is a superfluous delusion. Does genetic science pose a threat to religious self-understanding? In another direction, what can people of faith contribute to the fundamental social policy questions raised by genetic science?

What difference does faith make to the profound questions raised by genetic science for policies concerning privacy, transgenic research, human embryos, the engineering of future generations, and social justice? What does a faith generated belief in human dignity mean in the face of these urgent questions? Who should attend? Philosophers, theologians, religious educators, seminarians, policy-makers and laypersons within religious and scientific communities who have a special interest in genetics… Participants in the NIH ELSI program are especially welcome!

Challenging Assumptions: Religious Faith, Genetic Science, Human Dignity

Conference Description

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