For Immediate Release
30 November 2004

Scientists and leaders of faith communities are due to meet to discuss the difficult moral and ethical questions raised by modern science in a series of public events to be held in the East Midlands. Both sides will bring their own expertise and knowledge to the Grosseteste Dialogues, being organised by the BA.

“Science and technology affect our daily lives and often raise difficult moral and ethical questions,” says Philip Brown, East Midlands Regional Officer for the BA, who is organising the events. “Religious leaders often lack scientific training and feel uncertain when tackling these issues, but they are called on to support their followers. Likewise, scientists, especially those working in industry and medical professions, often have to make difficult ethical decisions without training in ethics.”

Named after the early scientist Robert Grosseteste, Bishop of Lincoln (d.1253), the Dialogues will give people of faith a chance to debate major issues with scientific experts and philosophers. Scientists will explain the latest discoveries whilst philosophers and leaders of faith communities will present the moral arguments. The audience will be able to express its views on the questions that new technology raises.

“By bringing together scientists, religious leaders and members of the public, the Dialogues aim to promote mutual understanding and help both sides feel more equipped to understand the different sides to these complex issues,” says Philip.

There will be five events across the East Midlands throughout February and March.

• Start of Life – 15 Feb, Lincoln Cathedral
• Environment – 22 Feb, Shree Sanatan Mandir (Hindu Temple), Leicester
• Genetic Testing – 1 March, Multi-faith Centre, Derby University
• South Asian Health – 8 March, Nottingham Islamia School End of Life – 15 March, Lincoln Cathedral

“We would like members of the public to let us know issues they would like discussed at the events,” says Philip. “It is important that they let scientists and religious leaders know their hopes and concerns about science.”

For tickets to the event, or to submit a question, contact:

  Philip Brown
  BA East Midlands Regional Office
  Post Room B7
  University of Leicester, University Road
  Leicester LE1 7RH
  07808 294844 (mob)
  024 76717275 (office)
  philip.brown@the-ba.net

Tickets for the Grosseteste Dialogues are free but places are very limited and will be allocated to give a wide representation of views. To apply, people should send their name, postal or email address, telephone number, religion (if any) and number of tickets required.

More information on the Grosseteste Dialogues can be found at www.the-ba.net/grosseteste.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Craig Brierley, Press Officer, the BA            
Tel: 020 7019 4947
Email: craig.brierley@the-ba.net

Note for editors

1. The BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science) is the UK's nationwide, open membership organisation dedicated to connecting science with people, so that science and its applications become accessible to all. The BA aims to promote openness about science in society and to engage and inspire people directly with science and technology and their implications. Established in 1831, the BA organises major initiatives across the UK, including the annual BA Festival of Science, National Science Week, programmes of regional and local events, and an extensive programme for young people in schools and colleges. For more information about the BA, please visit www.the-ba.net.

2. This project is supported by a grant from the Copus Grant Schemes. The Schemes provide funding and support for activities and projects across the UK that improve two-way communication between scientific communities and public audiences. Copus Grant Schemes are funded by the Office of Science and Technology and the Royal Society, and are administered by the Royal Society. For further information, visit www.copus.org.uk.