Beauty, wonder and the human experience of science.

Dr Ruth Bancewicz.

7.30 – 9.15 pm on Monday 22^nd April

The Meeting Place, Holy Trinity Church, Norwich NR2 2BJ.

Although many scientists claim to ignore any religious dimension during the course of their work they will often admit that the awesome beauty of the natural world is one of the main things that fascinates them. Anyone who has enjoyed the amazing wildlife TV programmes of David Attenborough or the fascinating insights into the natural world by Professor Brian Cox will have shared in these intense – almost mystical - feelings of beauty, awe and wonder. Just as a small child will fiddle with a new toy to discover new and interesting things, so a research scientist will use curiosity, imagination and creativity to find out more about the world around us – and enjoy the act of discovery!

Thus, a rainbow has beauty in itself but, through studying rainbows, Isaac Newton (an inquisitive scientist) discovered that light was composed of many different colours. An increasing number in the scientific community are recognising the role that beauty and aesthetics play in their research and in the presentation of results. Those in whom awe extends to reverence recognise the role of a creator God. Scientists and theologians use different methods but they share the same quest for Truth and Meaning in a world of bewildering but awesome complexity.

This theme is explored in a talk by Dr. Ruth Bancewicz entitled 'Weaving the Rainbow: Beauty, Wonder, and the Human Experience of Science'. Ruth is a Research Associate at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion, working on the positive interaction between science and faith . Ruth also developed the 'Test of FAITH' resources for churches and schools in order to promote the rich interactions between science and Christianity.

Previously, Ruth studied genetics at Aberdeen University and completed her PhD on vertebrate embryology at the MRC Human Genetics Unit in Edinburgh. Regular forays into the Edinburgh Science Festival during her time as a student got her hooked on the communication of science to the general public. She then spent two years as a part-time postdoctoral researcher at Edinburgh University, while also working as the Development Officer for Christians in Science. Her time with CiS convinced her that it was important for scientists to communicate from their own experience that science and faith can work together in an interesting and helpful way.

All are welcome at this open meeting.

Further details from sfnorfolk1@gmail.com.

Prof Nick Brewin, Secretary for Science & Faith in Norfolk.