The Northern Plains Ethics Institute at 线上赌博app will host a noon luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 19, featuring historian of science Edward B. Davis, whose presentation will examine the relationship between Christianity and scientific inquiry.

Davis will present “Why Christianity is Good for Science” from noon to 1 p.m. in the Prairie Rose room of the 线上赌博app Memorial Union, with a Zoom option available for virtual attendees. The talk is free and open to the public.

In his presentation, Davis will address claims by some contemporary scientists and commentators that science and Christianity are fundamentally opposed. Drawing on the history and philosophy of science, he will argue that Christian theological ideas, particularly the doctrine of creation, historically encouraged scientific curiosity and provided motivation for studying the natural world.

Davis is professor emeritus of the history of science at Messiah University and an affiliate fellow in the Department of the History of Science, Technology, and Medicine at the University of Oklahoma. He is also a fellow of the International Society for Science and Religion. He earned his undergraduate degree in physics from Drexel University and completed his doctorate in the history and philosophy of science at Indiana University.

During his academic career, Davis taught courses covering topics such as the Scientific Revolution, Galileo, Darwin and evolution, and the history of science from classical antiquity through the modern era. His research and commentary have appeared on BBC Radio, and he has served as an adviser for exhibits at the National Museum of American History and the Museum of the Bible. His most recent book, Protestant Modernist Pamphlets: Science and Religion in the Scopes Era, was published in 2024 by Johns Hopkins University Press. Davis has lectured at nearly 100 institutions across five continents.

The Northern Plains Ethics Institute promotes democratic engagement and public dialogue on ethical issues affecting the Northern Plains and beyond. Through lectures, public programs and community partnerships, the institute encourages thoughtful discussion across disciplines and perspectives.

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