2011-2012

SSiMS 2011-2012 Lecture

"What does it mean when people say they accept or reject evolution? Lessons from the Muslim world,"  by Salman Hameed, September 14, 2011

Abstract: The topic of biological evolution often flares up in American politics. Rick Perry has recently stated that evolution is "just a theory." Scientists often cite that more than half of the U.S. population does not accept biological evolution. But what does it mean when people say they don't "believe" in evolution? We have been conducting oral interviews with Muslim physicians and medical students in 8 countries. Our survey is still in progress, but we are finding complex ways in which these educated Muslims view evolution, and the broader relation of science and religion. I will highlight our preliminary findings from Malaysia, Pakistan, and from Pakistani physicians working in the U.S., and place the evolution-creation debate in a broader context.