Muslim group invites scientists to round-table chat about ideas

The British Science Association (BSA) is collecting 100 ideas on how to make science a more fundamental part of culture and society.

As part of the campaign, the BSA has asked for community groups, scientists, political commentators, authors and religious leaders to submit suggestions on how to integrate science into everyday life.

The highest rated submission, from The Muslim Council of Britain – headed by the Redbridge Islamic Centre’s Harun Khan – calls for a platform where religious believers and scientists can debate ideas together.

A spokesman for MCB said: “In order to understand faith communities and the public, scientists must first present their research subjects via a series of seminars.

“Each presentation will then be followed by an open discussion with the public about the ethical implications of the presented research.

“The presentations will address topics such as stem cell research, animal testing, privatisation of nature and datafication.”

This opportunity for frank discussion could lead to more understanding between scientists and religious people who are sceptical, the spokesman added.

He said: “By allowing these communities to explore scientific developments, they will be able to better assess the implications that these research areas have on their daily life and belief systems.

“Through allowing them to express their views about the topics, scientists will be able to better understand the ethical questions associated with their work.”

A BSA spokesman said it will work with the organisations behind the most popular proposals to see how they could be implemented.

To see the 100 ideas and learn more, click here.

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