“Existence and Extinction: Ecology, Ethics, and Theology Between Individual and Communal Mortality”
Monday, November 14th, 2011
12:00-1:30 pm
Swift Hall 201, University of Chicago
Please join us for a unique workshop and panel discussion of multidisciplinary approaches to species extinction, co-hosted by the University of Chicago Theology Workshop and the Zygon Center’s Religion and Science Student Society.
What religious or philosophical account is to be taken of an ecological process that eliminates not only individuals, but entire categories of beings? What ethical knots might exist around causing the extinction of a parasite, or preventing the extinction of an organism through genetic modification? How do the practitioners of ecological science engage with and speak to cultural expectations to find meaning in the natural world? Our panelists will begin by presenting reflections on the challenges and possibilities that extinction poses to their disciplines. Then there will be a moderated discussion between the panel and the workshop attendees.
Panelists:
–Dr. Paul G. Heltne — Primatologist, Conservationist, and President Emeritus, Chicago Academy of Sciences
–Willa Lengyel — PhD Student in Theological Ethics, University of Chicago Divinity School
–Dr. Dawn M. Nothwehr, OSF — Professor of Catholic Theological Ethics, Catholic Theological Union
Moderator:
-Aaron Hollander — PhD Student in Theology, University of Chicago Divinity School
This event is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. A light lunch will be provided.
Persons with a disability who believe they may need assistance should contact Kyle Rader at kgr@uchicago.edu in advance.
