Los Alamos Faith and Science Forum meets Wednesday at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos. Courtesy photo
LAFSF NEWS
Last Wednesday, Garrett Kenyon spoke to a full house at the Los Alamos Faith and Science Forum’s Summer Series. The theme of the summer series is “Are You a Robot? Brain, Mind and Soul”. Kenyon, an expert on artificial intelligence, spoke on the topic of “The Emperor Has No Brain: The reality of AI and the illusion of intelligence”. His advice – “Keep your hands on the steering wheel!”.
Next Wednesday, July 24, Gerry Wood will speak on “Evil: Is Anyone Responsible?”. Wood’s abstract states:
Evil – “I know it when I see it and I shudder when I think of it.” But, can we agree on how to define evil, its extent, and cause? Over the ages philosophers and theologians have tried to characterize evil. Ideas range from “it doesn’t exist” to “some evils are intrinsic and damning.” Examples of evil work best in defining it.
Likewise, proposals for the responsibility for evils range from no one (natural determinism) to evil spirits (Satan, demons, gods) to free-willed humans to the all-good God. Such assignments have significant consequences, including: a) how to prevent evil, b) how to deal with evil, c) whether to punish for evil, d) hope for deliverance from evil, and e) understanding and appreciating God.
Science is based on the assumption of natural determinism (reliable workings of laws of physics, chemistry, and biology) only. As we have seen in previous lectures on consciousness and the brain, some scientists are trying to explain away free will. Atheists deny the supernatural and its influences on behavior. Yet, religious scriptures, human history, and our personal experiences reveal evil, free will, and the supernatural as realities in addition to natural determinism.
The meetings take place at the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos, 1738 N Sage Loop, Los Alamos, NM. The evening begins with a light supper at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, with the presentation starting at 6:30 PM, followed by questions and table discussions. For more information check out the Los Alamos Faith and Science Forum website – http://www.lafsf.org.