October 24, 2010

ON PHYSICS AND FAITH. In this hour we explore the universe, modern cosmology and faith, with our special guest Stephen M. Barr. Dr. Barr is a theoretical particle physicist and a professor of physics in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Delaware. His work centers mainly on grand unified theories and the cosmology of the early universe. Dr. Barr writes and lectures extensively on the relation of science and religion. He is the author of the books 'Modern Physics and Ancient Faith,' and 'A Student’s Guide to Natural Science,' and has served on the board of The Fellowship of Catholic Scholars. Dr. Barr has written 140 research papers, as well as the article on Grand Unification for the Encyclopedia of Physics. He received his Ph.D. from Princeton University in 1978, and a Papal Medal for his work in religion and science in 2007. In this hour, topics include: the relationship between science and religion; Barr's ease in his role as a scientist and as a person of faith; how the two fields are harmonious; what drew him to study physics; his book 'Modern Physics and Ancient Faith' and the timeless nature of faith; the role of the Roman Catholic Church is establishing study of modern science; the term 'creation,' as a biblical and ongoing idea and event; current trends in popular physics; the concept of time, and God as 'outside of time'; the role of God as author of the laws that govern science; the place for mystery in science; and much more.