Some of the biggest names in science and the humanities have gathered at Florida State University for "Origins '09: Celebrating the Birth & Life of Beginnings." The two-week program will look at how advances in science, religion, philosophy, and art have shaped modern society and our understanding of life.
Regular readers of this blog will recognize many of the speakers scheduled to be there, including biologist E.O. Wilson, molecular biologist and geneticist Sean Carroll, theoretical physicist Lisa Randall, historian Ron Numbers (widely considered the world's leading expert on the origins and beliefs of creationism), and anthropologist Don Johanson (co-discoverer of the 3.2 million-year-old skeleton "Lucy"). Today, Peter Harrison, a professor of science and religion at the University of Oxford, will discuss "The Origins of the Conflict Between Science and Religion."
If you're in the area, check it out: All of the events (other than the tribute to the origins of jazz on March 28) are free and open to the public. Otherwise, tune in to "Science Friday" on March 20, which will broadcast live from the event. —Heather Wax