Abstract

In today’s digitalized world the way the public collects information is changing, the public have access to an array of places to find facts, opinions and evidence and this is having an impact on public perception as well as literacy on key issues and topics. We have seen the development of a Science Media Centre to help inform the press on science but at the same time a decrease in religious correspondents. As science advances so rapidly are key questions not being addressed in the media?

This panel discussion will investigate the various aspects of the dissemination and understanding of the science religion dialogue as well as looking at the use and representation of academically credible and reliable information. Whose responsibility is it to keep the public informed and up-to-date? Where should the information come from and how should it be shared? Are commissioning processes fair in the representation of certain topics? Is the dissemination being distorted due to budgeting or political issues? With panelists including key journalists and academics the discussion will be an interesting and informed dialogue about the challenges, opportunities and struggles of science and religion in the media.

Panelists:

1. Clifford Longley (Religion across various media)

2. Aaqil Ahmed (BBC Commissioning Editor Religion & Head of Religion & Ethics)

3. Denis Alexander (Emeritus Director of The Faraday Institute)

4. Fern Elsden Baker (Project Director: Science and Religion Exploring the Spectrum)

Chair: Keith Fox (Associate Director of The Faraday Institute)