Veritas Forum at Caltech
What is the meaning of life? The true meaning of success? What role can and should religion play in the life of a scientist? Does it act to his or her detriment or enrichment? In this year's upcoming Veritas Forum, we seek to answer the question "Is Science Enough?" This is an opportunity to engage Caltech students and faculty members in discussion about these difficult questions. In previous years, we've invited renowned social critics and scientific pioneers to communicate with the Caltech community about their thoughts regarding these topics; these people include Francis Collins (2009), Os Guinness (2010), Satyan Devadoss (2011), and Pat Gelsinger (2012). This January, MIT professor Troy Van Voorhis will come to speak at Caltech, offering his unique perspective on science, personal faith and the value of life, which we hope will provide an impetus to seek the answers to these questions—individually in personal reflection and together in dialogue.
Dr. Troy Van Voorhis received his bachelor's degree in chemistry and mathematics from Rice University and his PhD in chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley. Following a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard, he joined the faculty of MIT. His research focuses on the intersection of quantum mechanics and chemistry. In particular, his work addresses questions of how solar energy can be efficiently captured and stored. He is the author of numerous scholarly publications, and a fellow of the David & Lucille Packard foundation.
Admission is free, no tickets necessary. Doors open at 7:30. A reception with the speaker will follow.
About Veritas Forums
Where does morality come from? Isn't science rapidly approaching a complete explanation of nature? Do you ever have doubts about your worldview? Where can I find meaning and fulfillment?
College students around the world are asking themselves and their friends these questions, but there is often no real place to explore these questions alongside brilliant faculty and leading thinkers.
Veritas Forums are events that engage students and faculty in discussions about life's hardest questions and the relevance of Jesus Christ to all of life.
Veritas Forums are created and hosted by campus student organizations, connected to a network of 85 campuses nationwide, and supported by the national Veritas Forum team.