Scholars seek Science–Religion dialogue to address ills of globalization

Scholars from all major religion in the country have advocated a creative science–religion dialogue to maximize the benefits of globalization and minimize its ill effects on the poor.

The seminar which was held in Lonavala, near Mumbai, was themed Science–Religion Dialogue in a Globalizing World. The gathering was organized by the Jesuit–run Indian Institute of Science and Religion (IISR), with three other local colleges and Jnana Deepa Vidyapeeth.

"Science and religion should aim at humanizing globalization and globalize the human relations," read the statement, by over 100 university professors, researchers and activists from India and overseas.

The statement says globalization should "lead to an integral development of all humans." For this, they added, "the benefits of globalization should be maximized and made available to all."

In order for society to ensure that its "poorer sections" do not become the victims of globalization, the emerging phenomenon needs to develop a human sensitivity to both its external and internal dimensions, the statement continues.

The participants at the event strongly urged political and educational systems to encourage students to broaden their understanding on human life and nature, and be sensitive to global concerns.

They even suggested having all educational institutions develop courses on science–religion dialogue.

Jesuit Father Job Kozhamthadam, who launched IISR seven years ago to encourage science–religion interaction, told UCA News, religious values such as caring and sharing, mutual understanding and appreciation need to be emphasized. "A globalizing world needs more and more mahatmas" who stress concern for others in daily life, he said.