The Limits of Scientific Explanation
Supported by the John Templeton Foundation, this project aimed to expand the activities of the Copernicus Center for Interdisciplinary Studies in three key areas: physics and cosmology, philosophy and theology, and mind and normativity. Over the course of three years, the project organized dozens of symposia, seminars, and scientific conferences, several series of academic lectures, and enhanced our outreach activities.
Project
Grantor: John Templeton Foundation, grant ID: 20237, project value: 1.98 million USD
Project Director: Prof. Michał Heller
Research was conducted within three research groups: “Physics and Cosmology,” “Mind and Normativity,” and “Philosophy and Theology.”
Physics and Cosmology: This area focused on the limits of the applicability of the mathematical method in physics, including theories concerning the early phases of the cosmos, the Planck phase, singularities, and more. The use of noncommutative geometry as a mathematical tool for modeling the early stages of the universe’s evolution was explored.
Philosophy and Theology: This group analyzed the limitations of the empirical method from a theological perspective. Discussions included the role of philosophy in theology, the logical conditions of theological discourse, and the potential for creating a new branch of theology – the theology of science.
Mind and Normativity: Research in this group concentrated on the biological foundations of the normative functions of the mind, including studies on language, moral decision-making, and the influence of the environment on the development of mental functions. Empirical studies were also conducted using brain imaging equipment.
The project also had an educational and outreach component. Several courses for students were developed, dozens of popular science articles were published, and a series of popular lectures, “The Limits of Science,” was initiated.