Scientists, Scholars, and Students Studying Religion from an Evolutionary Perspective
The study of evolution is inherently trans-disciplinary because it involves applying the same basic principles to a vast diversity of subjects. This cultivates a respectful learning environment because an expert on any given subject must function simultaneously as a student and a teacher. As you will see, the scientists and scholars in this directory come from almost every conceivable background. Some have received formal training in evolutionary theory, but others acquired their evolutionary expertise on their own, a processes that is surprisingly easy, especially given a resource such as this website.
It is important to emphasize that quantification and other trappings of modern science refine, but do not define the scientific process. Darwin established his entire theory on the strength of descriptive information about living organisms and the fossil record, gathered by the naturalists of his day. Traditional religious scholarship provides comparable information for the thousands of religions that exist around the world and throughout history. Scholars who might not think of themselves as scientists therefore have an essential role to play as the “natural historians” of religion. Our project on religious conceptions of the afterlife is based primarily on this kind of information.
Joining the Directory
The directory includes links to websites that provide more information about each person and their research. If you wish to be added to the directory, please e-mail the following information to Ian MacDonald:
- Your name and affiliation as you would like it listed;
- a brief description of your interests in evolution and religion;
- a link to your website or e-mail address; and
- an image of yourself.
Individuals not wishing to join the directory can register as a member of the ERS Community of Interest (ERS-COI) to receive research activity updates and participate in online discussions. E-mail Ian MacDonald for more information.
If you wish to publicize a research project, especially if it involves participation, please contact David Sloan Wilson.