Vatican City, 11th March 2005 (CNA)
- Earlier today, the findings of one of the
most prestigious current research programs on the
relationship between science, philosophy and
theology was unveiled at the Vatican.
The presentation was based on results of
the second phase of the STOQ Project (Science,
Theology and the Ontological Quest), coordinated
by the Pontifical Council for Culture.
Cardinal Paul Poupard, president of the
Council, indicated in his talk that the project
involves the Pontifical Lateran and Gregorian
Universities, the Pontifical Athenaeum "Regina
Apostolorum”, as well as a number of other
pontifical universities, which have varying
degrees of involvement.
The John Templeton Foundation along with
numerous sponsors from various countries is
financially supporting the
project.
Cardinal Poupard pointed out
that the project "consists of a series of
organically-coordinated initiatives at three
different levels: the first and fundamental level
is that of teaching, with the object of forming
specialists in the field of dialogue between
science and faith.”
“This will take place”, he said, “by means
of graduate studies programs in each university
with a view to attaining a degree (bachelors or
masters), and with the possibility of exchanging
academic credits between the various universities
involved in the project."
The council president noted that the
project also includes: "the definition of joint
programs with other public and private
universities, with the possibility of attaining a
form of double recognition; scholarships for
doctoral theses; and the organization of an
international congress in November 2005 on the
theme 'Infinity in Science, Philosophy and
Theology,' in which scientists, theologians and
philosophers from all over the world will
participate."
The final aim of the
project, Cardinal Poupard said, is "to contribute
to dialogue between areas of research and study
that, in the modern age, have slowly become
separated."
He noted that in order to reach this, its
is necessary "to build firm bridges and create
fruitful exchanges between science, philosophy and
theology through dialogue among their respective
practitioners.”