Panel discussion to explore if science and religion can coexist

A panel discussion offering a range of perspectives will discuss the roles of science and religion in people’s lives at 7 p.m. on Feb. 18 in the Bennett Hall auditorium at Ohio University-Chillicothe. “Let’s swim together: The peaceful coexistence of science and religion,” which is part of the Kennedy Lecture series, is free and open to the public.

Keynote speaker Michael Zimmerman of Butler University will present the view that an individual’s study of science, particularly evolution, does not need to interfere with his or her religious views that may run contrary to what is taught in scientific textbooks. OU-C Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Robert Moats will provide the perspective of a scientist, and recent OU-C graduate Julie VanHoose will present the fundamentally religious viewpoint.

After delivering their remarks, the panelists will then respond to questions from each other and from audience members.

Zimmerman is dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and professor of biology at Butler University in Indianapolis, Ind. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from Washington University. In 2004, he organized the Clergy Letter Project, which involved more than 12,000 Christian clergy members endorsing a document stating that they believe that “the timeless truths of the Bible and the discoveries of modern science may comfortably coexist.”

The Kennedy Lecture Series strives to bring esteemed speakers to campus to share their perspectives and insights. The lecture series supports the campus’ emphasis on providing campus and local community residents with activities that add to the richness and vibrancy of the entire community.