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111-727: This effort was initiated in 2004 by the biologist Michael Zimmerman , past vice president for academic affairs and provost at Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington . The letter was written by John McFadden, pastor of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Appleton, Wisconsin . The project also encourages congregations to participate in Religion and Science Weekend by sponsoring events in which clergy and congregations are encouraged to learn about and discuss

222-423: A community of interacting populations . They usually specialize in a particular branch (e.g., molecular biology , zoology , and evolutionary biology ) of biology and have a specific research focus (e.g., studying malaria or cancer). Biologists who are involved in basic research have the aim of advancing knowledge about the natural world. They conduct their research using the scientific method , which

333-475: A blend of Ashkenazi and Sephardi liturgies, based on the innovations of the Kabbalist Isaac Luria . Neo-Hasidism is a term which refers to trends of interest in the teachings of Kabbalah and Hasidism which are expressed by members of other existing Jewish movements. In the late 18th century, there was a serious schism between Hasidic and non-Hasidic Jews. European traditionalist Jews who rejected

444-581: A central role in its ideology." Religious Zionists ( datim ) have embraced the Zionist movement, including Religious Kibbutz Movement , as part of the divine plan to bring or speed up the messianic era. Before the creation of the State of Israel or the Holocaust, Zionism was rejected by most ultra-Orthodox and Reform Jews. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish non-Zionists believed that the return to Israel could only happen with

555-474: A deep ethnic heritage and historical relationship with the land. This connection is celebrated and remembered through the observance of holidays and commemorations that reflect on the Jewish people's historical experiences of dispersal and return. Spiritually, Communal Judaism advocates for the integration of tradition into daily life, upholding a heart-centered approach to religious practice. While individual prayer

666-497: A few weeks he had collected almost 200 clergy signatures. The signed letter was delivered to the Grantsburg School Board on December 16, 2004. This effort, together with those of other concerned groups of educators, citizens and scientists, lead the Grantsburg School Board to rescind its policies. After this success, Zimmerman was encouraged to organize a nationwide campaign and gather more signatures. By September 12, 2005,

777-704: A figurative understanding. It is possible to be inspired by the religious teachings of the Bible while not taking a literalist approach and while accepting the validity of science including the foundational concept of evolution. It is not the role of public schools to indoctrinate students with specific religious beliefs but rather to educate them in the established principles of science and in other subjects of general knowledge. Unitarian Universalist Letter The Clergy Letter - from Unitarian Universalist Clergy – An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science As Unitarian Universalists, we draw from many sources, including "Wisdom from

888-499: A letter to the editor in the Yale Daily News . Wells brushed over the points Zimmerman had raised, and focused on whether the word "Darwinism" is appropriate or not. Wells also responded with vigor to two others who had written letters to the editor critical of his original article. Finally, Wells claimed that the only reason to stage Evolution Sunday is because evolution is not "scientifically sound or religiously neutral," and that it

999-536: A lifestance that is guided by reason, inspired by compassion, and informed by experience. Humanism is not anti-religious. It embraces a progressive philosophy which affirms our ability and responsibility to lead ethical lives of personal fulfillment that aspire to the greater good of humanity. Humanist clergy serve a growing number of individuals who variously identify as Humanists, agnostics, non-religious, and atheists, and their allies, by providing leadership, moral guidance, rites of passage, and life celebration services in

1110-622: A literal history but as metaphor describing the evolving nature of life. In fact, the concept of Buddha itself is best understood as a symbol for humanity’s evolutionary potential. For all of these reasons, we admonish public school boards to affirm their commitment to teaching the science of evolution. We understand the role of public schools is to educate students in the established principles of science and in other subjects of general knowledge. Humanist Clergy Letter The Clergy Letter - from American Humanist Clergy – An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science As Humanists, we have adopted

1221-414: A literal interpretation of the biblical or other religious accounts of creation are free to teach their perspectives in their homes, religious institutions, and private religious schools. But to teach creationism in its various forms, or to compromise the teaching of evolution to placate religious sensibilities, in the public schools would be to assert a particular religious perspective in an environment which

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1332-447: A mammal from an adult somatic cell, a Finnish Dorset lamb named Dolly. An undergraduate degree in biology typically requires coursework in molecular and cellular biology , development , ecology , genetics , microbiology , anatomy , physiology , botany , and zoology . Additional requirements may include physics , chemistry ( general , organic , and biochemistry ), calculus , and statistics . Students who aspire to

1443-549: A movement in the Kingdom of Hungary and in its territories ceded in 1920 , is similar to the more traditional branch of American Conservative Judaism. Communal Judaism, also referred to as יהדות חברתי ( Yahadut Ḥevrati ) in Hebrew, is a denomination that intertwines the ethnoreligious identity and indigenous tradition within the broader Jewish community. Unlike other movements which may emphasize theological nuances, Communal Judaism places

1554-552: A position to veto or approve their ideas. These scientists must consider the business effects of their work. Swift advances in knowledge of genetics and organic molecules spurred growth in the field of biotechnology, transforming the industries in which biological scientists work. Biological scientists can now manipulate the genetic material of animals and plants, attempting to make organisms (including humans) more productive or resistant to disease. Basic and applied research on biotechnological processes, such as recombining DNA, has led to

1665-711: A research-oriented career usually pursue a graduate degree such as a master's or a doctorate (e.g., PhD) whereby they would receive training from a research head based on an apprenticeship model that has been in existence since the 1800s. Students in these graduate programs often receive specialized training in a particular subdiscipline of biology. Biologists who work in basic research formulate theories and devise experiments to advance human knowledge on life including topics such as evolution , biochemistry , molecular biology , neuroscience and cell biology . Biologists typically conduct laboratory experiments involving animals , plants , microorganisms or biomolecules . However,

1776-558: A scathing article in the Yale Daily News about Evolution Sunday, " Darwinism ," and Zimmerman. Wells repeated creationist objections to evolution by claiming that there is no evidence of evolution and condemning evolution for not being in agreement with the views of 40% of the American public. Zimmerman responded to Wells' attack with a column in the Yale Daily News pointing out the copious errors of fact in Wells' article. Wells followed this with

1887-411: A similar fashion to the clergies of other traditions. Fundamentalists of various religions who perceive the science of evolution to be in conflict with their sectarian beliefs are seeking to influence public education authorities to require or authorize the teaching of creationism or to deprecate the teaching of evolution. We see this as a breach of the separation of church and state. Those who believe in

1998-772: A small part of biological research also occurs outside the laboratory and may involve natural observation rather than experimentation. For example, a botanist may investigate the plant species present in a particular environment, while an ecologist might study how a forest area recovers after a fire. Biologists who work in applied research use instead the accomplishments gained by basic research to further knowledge in particular fields or applications. For example, this applied research may be used to develop new pharmaceutical drugs , treatments and medical diagnostic tests . Biological scientists conducting applied research and product development in private industry may be required to describe their research plans or results to non-scientists who are in

2109-688: A specified person called a Baal Koreh, who reads from the Torah scroll when congregants are called to the Torah scroll for an aliyah . In the Yemenite tradition, each person called to the Torah scroll for an aliyah reads for himself. The Shas , a religious political party in Israel, represents the interests of the Orthodox/Haredi Sephardim and Mizrahim. A relatively small but influential ethnoreligious group in

2220-516: A study of the natural world to include supernatural explanations, and it was important for clergy to defend science against these attacks. Ken Ham and Mark Looy of the creationist organization Answers in Genesis have repeatedly condemned Evolution Sunday/Evolution Weekend activities as a "Darwin praise service" and expressing dismay that "over 10,200 clergy had signed this awful letter." Ham and Looy also criticized Zimmerman's fundraising efforts through

2331-505: A substantial focus on the social and communal aspects of Jewish life, alongside personal spiritual practices. Practitioners are diverse, found globally with significant numbers in Israel and the United States, extending to European and Middle Eastern countries. This spread is reflective of the movement's inclusive approach to Jewish identity, welcoming those who align with its core values of maintaining communal traditions and customs without

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2442-443: A theory,” miscommunicates its centrality in modern biology and threatens students’ understanding of the very nature of science. Along with our religious allies of other traditions, we ask that science remain science and that religion remain religion. We urge public education authorities to preserve the integrity of the science curriculum by affirming the teaching of evolutionary theory as a core component of human knowledge. The project

2553-677: A viable level of membership. Relationships between Jewish religious movements are varied; they are sometimes marked by interdenominational cooperation outside of the realm of halakha (Jewish law), such as the New York Board of Rabbis , and sometimes not. Some of the movements sometimes cooperate by uniting with one another in community federations and in campus organizations such as the Hillel Foundation . Jewish religious denominations are distinct from, but often linked to, Jewish ethnic divisions and Jewish political movements . Prior to

2664-489: A vital scientific concept essential to public science education curricula. Teaching evolution in a public science classroom is no more an endorsement of Humanism than it would be of any of these otherwise disparate religious orientations.. We believe that evolution is a foundational scientific truth, one that has stood up to rigorous scrutiny and upon which much of human knowledge and achievement rests. Omitting evolution from science teaching, or treating it dismissively as “only

2775-412: Is "promoting an anti-religious philosophy disguised as empirical science." University of Iowa faculty member Tara C. Smith noted several other responses to this episode in her blog , Aetiology . Biologist A biologist is a scientist who conducts research in biology . Biologists are interested in studying life on Earth, whether it is an individual cell , a multicellular organism , or

2886-673: Is a de facto recognition of Israel, but only as a secular non-religious state. A few of the fringe groups of the anti-Zionists, with marginal ideology, does not recognize the legitimacy of the Israeli state. Among them are both the Orthodox (the Satmar Hasidism , Edah HaChareidis , Neturei Karta ) and Reform ( American Council for Judaism ). In addition, according to some contemporary scholars, Religious Zionism stands at least outside of Rabbinic Judaism or ever shoots off Judaism as such. Among

2997-491: Is a spectrum of communities and practices, ranging from ultra-Orthodox Haredi Judaism and Jewish fundamentalism to Modern Orthodox Judaism (with Neo-Orthodoxy , Open Orthodoxy , and Religious Zionism ). Orthodox Jews who opposed the Haskalah became known as Haredi Jews ( Haredim ), including Hardalim , Hasidim , Misnagdim ( Lita'im ), and Sephardim Haredim . Orthodox Jews who were sympathetic to

3108-479: Is an empirical method for testing hypotheses . Their discoveries may have applications for some specific purpose such as in biotechnology , which has the goal of developing medically useful products for humans. In modern times, most biologists have one or more academic degrees such as a bachelor's degree , as well as an advanced degree such as a master's degree or a doctorate . Like other scientists, biologists can be found working in different sectors of

3219-602: Is encouraged, the emphasis is placed on communal worship and support, reflecting the movement's overarching commitment to a life lived in close connection with one's community and heritage. The particular forms of Judaism which are practiced by the different Jewish denominations have been shaped by the immigration of the Ashkenazi Jewish communities, once concentrated in eastern and central Europe, to western and mostly Anglophone countries (in particular, in North America). In

3330-460: Is not explicitly taught in our faith, it is implicit in the core teaching of interdependent origination, which demonstrates that all things are interconnected and contingent upon one another for their form and development. Likewise, a creator deity is not relied upon for a creation story. The ancient Indian fables of the Buddha’s various incarnations from animal to human are readily understood not as

3441-496: Is supposed to be free of such indoctrination. We, the undersigned Humanist clergy, stand in agreement with the global scientific community that the evidence of cosmological, geological, and biological evolution is overwhelming. This consensus is in no way particular to Humanism, and we stand in solidarity with our colleagues of the Christian, Jewish, Unitarian Universalist, Muslim, and Buddhist faiths who have also embraced evolution as

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3552-450: Is the practice of Judaism as observed by the Sephardim (Iberian, Spanish-Portuguese Jews ). The Mizrahi Jews (including Maghrebi ) are all Oriental Jewry. Some definitions of "Sephardic" also include Mizrahi, many of whom follow the same traditions of worship but have different ethno-cultural traditions. So far as it is peculiar to themselves and not shared with other Jewish groups such as

3663-692: Is to deliberately embrace scientific ignorance and transmit such ignorance to our children. We urge school board members to preserve the integrity of the science curriculum by affirming the teaching of the theory of evolution as a core component of human knowledge. We ask that science remain science and that religion remain religion, two very different, but complementary, forms of truth. Buddhist Clergy Letter The Clergy Letter - from American Buddhist Clergy – An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science "If scientific analysis were conclusively to demonstrate certain claims in Buddhism to be false, then we must accept

3774-514: The Baal Shem Tov , whose followers had previously called themselves Freylechn ("happy ones") and now they call themselves Hasidim ("pious, holy ones"). His charismatic disciples attracted many followers among Ashkenazi Jews, and they also established numerous Hasidic groups across Europe. The Baal Shem Tov came at a time when the Jewish masses of Eastern Europe were reeling from the bewilderment and disappointment which were engendered in them by

3885-617: The Haymanot branch of Judaism), some of which are nearing extinction as a result of assimilation and intermarriage into surrounding non-Jewish cultures or surrounding Jewish cultures. Additionally, special ethnoreligious divisions are also the Italian rite Jews and the Greek Romaniote Jews . Both groups are considered distinct from Ashkenazim and Sephardim. The Enlightenment had a tremendous effect on Jewish identity and on ideas about

3996-730: The Oral Torah as a divine authority nor the rabbinic procedures used to interpret Jewish scripture. The tradition of the Qara'im survives in Karaite Judaism , started in the early 9th century when non-rabbinic sages like Benjamin Nahawandi and their followers took the rejection of the Oral Torah by Anan ben David to the new level of seeking the plain meaning of the Tanakh's text. Karaite Jews accept only

4107-746: The Talmud , further attest these ancient schisms. The main internal struggles during this era were between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, as well as the early Christians, and also the Essenes and Zealots. The Pharisees wanted to maintain the authority and traditions of classical Torah teachings and began the early teachings of the Mishna , maintaining the authority of the Sanhedrin , the supreme Jewish court. According to Josephus,

4218-559: The relationship between religion and science " and in an effort "to elevate the quality of the discussion on this critical topic, and to show that religion and science are not adversaries." The project states that events are specifically intended to emphasize that "Religious people from many diverse faith traditions and locations around the world understand that evolution is quite simply sound science; and for them, it does not in any way threaten, demean, or diminish their faith in God. In fact, for many,

4329-526: The "Centrist" Orthodoxy was represented by American rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik affiliated with the Orthodox Union . In Israel, Orthodox Judaism occupies a privileged position: solely an Orthodox rabbi may become the Chief rabbi and Chief military rabbi ; and only Orthodox synagogues have the right to conduct Jewish marriages . Reform Judaism, also known as Liberal (the "Liberal" label can refer only to

4440-637: The 1820s there was the Sephardic congregation Beth Elohim in Charleston, South Carolina . A part of the European Sephardim were also linked with the Judaic modernization. Unlike the predominantly Ashkenazic Reform, and Reconstructionist denominations, Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews who are not observant generally believe that Orthodox Judaism's interpretation and legislation of halakha is appropriate, and true to

4551-695: The 20th century in the United States. In Israel , variation is moderately similar, differing from the west in having roots in the Old Yishuv and pre-to-early-state Yemenite infusion, among other influences. For statistical and practical purposes, the distinctions there are based upon a person's attitude to religion. Most Jewish Israelis classify themselves as " secular " ( hiloni ), "traditional" ( masortim ), "religious" ( dati ) or ultra-religious ( haredi ). The western and Israeli movements differ in their views on various issues (as do those of other Jewish communities). These issues include

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4662-616: The Ashkenazim (German rite). Sephardim are primarily the descendants of Jews from the Iberian Peninsula , such as most Jews from France and the Netherlands . They may be divided into the families that left in the Expulsion of 1492 and those that remained as crypto-Jews , Marranos and those who left in the following few centuries. In religious parlance, and by many in modern Israel,

4773-405: The Bible literally, as they would a science textbook. We believe that religious truth is of a different order from scientific truth. Its purpose is not to convey scientific information but to transform hearts. Fundamentalists of various traditions, who perceive the science of evolution to be in conflict with their personal religious beliefs, are seeking to influence public school boards to authorize

4884-512: The British branch) or Progressive Judaism, originally began in Germany, the Netherlands and the United States c.  1820 as a reaction to modernity, stresses assimilation and integration with society and a personal interpretation of the Torah. The German rabbi and scholar Abraham Geiger with principles of Judaism as religion and not ethnicity, progressive revelation, historical-critical approach,

4995-544: The Christian Alliance for Progress. Answers in Genesis published a list of "modern scientists who have accepted the biblical account of creation." The majority are not biologists. The group has also organized "Creation Sunday" in response to Evolution Weekend, and has promoted the Creation Letter Project in response to Clergy Letter Project. Jonathan Dudley, a divinity student at Yale University and author of

5106-434: The Christian version of the project has also been translated to Spanish , Portuguese , and French . Rabbi Letter The Clergy Letter - from American Rabbis – An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science As rabbis from various branches of Judaism , we the undersigned, urge public school boards to affirm their commitment to the teaching of the science of evolution. Fundamentalists of various traditions, who perceive

5217-512: The Clergy Letter Project also organize "Evolution Weekend," an annual movement to encourages churches to discuss the role of science and religion in sermons , discussion groups, seminars , and other activities on the weekend nearest to February 12, the birthday of Charles Darwin ( Darwin Day ). The day began in 2006 as "Evolution Sunday," gaining attention from The New York Times . In 2008, it

5328-417: The Clergy Letter Project had collected more than 7,500 signatures. By the beginning of December 2005, the project had amassed more than 10,000 signatures. Most of the clergy who signed are Protestant , an artifact of the way that people were originally invited to sign the letter. Email invitations were sent; it was easier to get email addresses for some churches and denominations than others. The clergy letter

5439-574: The Enlightenment. These movements promoted scientific thinking, free thought, and allowed people to question previously unshaken religious dogmas. The emancipation of the Jews in many European communities, and the Haskalah movement started by Moses Mendelssohn , brought the Enlightenment to the Jewish community. In response to the challenges of integrating Jewish life with Enlightenment values, German Jews in

5550-596: The Hasidic Jewish groups have been theologically subsumed into mainstream Orthodox Judaism, particularly, Haredi Judaism , but cultural differences persist. In the 19th century, the Lithuanian spirituality was mainly incorporated into the Musar movement . Late-18th-century Europe, and then the rest of the world, was swept by a group of intellectual, social and political movements that taken together were referred to as

5661-651: The Hasidic movement were dubbed Mitnagdim ("opponents") by the followers of the Baal Shem Tov. Lithuania became the centre of this opposition under the leadership of Vilna Gaon (Elijah ben Solomon Zalman), which adopted the epithets Litvishe (Yiddish word), Litvaks (in Slavic) or Lita'im (in Hebrew) those epithets refer to Haredi Jews who are not Hasidim (and not Hardalim or Sephardic Haredim ). Since then, all of

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5772-526: The Haskalah formed what became known as modern/neo-Orthodox Jews. The German rabbi Azriel Hildesheimer is regarded as a Modern Orthodoxy founder, while the father of neo-Orthodoxy was German rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch , who proclaimed principle Torah im Derech Eretz —the strict observance of the Jewish Law in an active social life—in 1851, he become the rabbi of first Orthodox separatist group from Reform community of Frankfurt am Main . In addition,

5883-529: The Orthodox tradition, even though many of the congregants may not keep a level of observance on par with traditional Orthodox belief. For example, many congregants will drive to the synagogue on the Shabbat , in violation of halakha , while discreetly entering the synagogue so as not to offend more observant congregants. However, not all Sephardim are Orthodox; among the pioneers of the Reform Judaism movement in

5994-823: The Pharisaic movement, which became known as Rabbinic Judaism (in Hebrew Yahadut Rabanit — יהדות רבנית) with the compilation of the Oral Torah into the Mishna . After the Bar Kokhba revolt and the destruction of the Second Temple the other movements disappeared from the historical record, yet the Sadducees probably kept on existing in a non-organized form for at least several more decades. Non-Rabbinic Judaism— Sadducees , Nazarenes , Karaite Judaism , and Haymanot —contrasts with Rabbinic Judaism and does not recognize

6105-434: The Sadducees differed from the Pharisees on a number of doctrinal grounds, notably rejecting ideas of life after death. They appear to have dominated the aristocracy and the temple, but their influence over the wider Jewish population was limited. The Essenes preached an ascetic way of life. The Zealots advocated armed rebellion against any foreign power such as Rome . All were at violent logger-heads with each other, leading to

6216-631: The Tanakh as divinely inspired, not recognizing the authority that Rabbinites ascribe to basic rabbinic works like the Talmud and the Midrashim . Although there are numerous Jewish ethnic communities, there are several that are large enough to be considered predominant. Generally, they do not constitute separate religious branches within Judaism, but rather separate cultural traditions ( nuschaot ) and rites of prayer ( minhagim ). Ashkenazi Jews compose about 75% of

6327-515: The United States, at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries, the Reform movement became the first in terms of numbers, ahead of Conservative Judaism. In contrast, Israeli Reform is smaller one. Conservative or Masorti Judaism, originated in Germany in the 19th century on the ideological foundation of the Historical School studies, but became institutionalized in the United States, where it

6438-568: The appropriate interpretation of halakha for Jews of Sephardic and Mizrachi descent. The Yemenite Jews —the Dor Daim and other movements—use a separate Baladi-rite . The Yemenite and the Aramaic speaking Kurdish Jews are the only communities who maintain the tradition of reading the Torah in the synagogue in both Hebrew and the Aramaic Targum ("translation"). Most non-Yemenite synagogues have

6549-552: The book Broken Words: The Abuse of Science and Faith in American Politics (2011), wrote approvingly of Evolution Sunday in the Yale Daily News on January 24, 2007, while still worrying that congregations were not being taught to think for themselves with this current campaign, any more than subscribing to fundamentalist Christian Biblical literalist doctrines. This caused Discovery Institute fellow Jonathon Wells to write

6660-566: The centrality of the Prophetic books, and superiority of ethical aspects to the ceremonial ones has become the main ideologist of the "Classical" Reform. Unlike traditional Judaism, the Reform rejects the concept of the Jews as the chosen people . There are transformations from the purism of "Classical" European to the "New Reform" in America with reincorporation some traditional Jewish elements. In

6771-431: The coming of the Messiah , and that a political attempt to re-establish a Jewish state through human means alone was contrary to God's plan. Non-Zionists believed that Jews should integrate into the countries in which they lived, rather than moving to the Land of Israel . The original founders of Reform Judaism in Germany rejected traditional prayers for the restoration of Jerusalem. The view among Reform Jews that Judaism

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6882-487: The confusion and disunity that ended with the destruction of the Second Temple and the sacking of Jerusalem by Rome. The Jewish Christians were the original Jewish followers of Jesus . The radical interpretation of Moses' Law by Jesus' disciples and their belief he is the Son of God , along with the development of the New Testament , ensured that Christianity and Judaism would become distinctively different religions . Most streams of modern Judaism developed from

6993-469: The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, Jews of the Roman province of Judaea were divided into several movements, sometimes warring among themselves: Pharisees , Sadducees , Essenes , Zealots , and ultimately early Christians . Many historic sources such as Flavius Josephus , the New Testament and the recovered fragments of the Dead Sea Scrolls , attest to the divisions among Jews at this time. Rabbinical writings from later periods, including

7104-493: The discoveries of modern science may comfortably coexist. We believe that the theory of evolution is a foundational scientific truth, one that has stood up to rigorous scrutiny and upon which much of human knowledge and achievement rests. To reject this truth or to treat it as " one theory among others " is to deliberately embrace scientific ignorance and transmit such ignorance to our children. We believe that among God's good gifts are human minds capable of critical thought and that

7215-670: The discovery of genes associated with specific diseases and inherited health risks, such as sickle cell anemia. Advances in biotechnology have created research opportunities in almost all areas of biology, with commercial applications in areas such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation . Most biological scientists specialize in the study of a certain type of organism or in a specific activity, although recent advances have blurred some traditional classifications. Biologists typically work regular hours but longer hours are not uncommon. Researchers may be required to work odd hours in laboratories or other locations (especially while in

7326-400: The early 19th century began to develop the concept of Reform Judaism , adapting Jewish practice to the new conditions of an increasingly urbanized and secular community. Staunch opponents of the Reform movement became known as Orthodox Jews . Later, members of the Reform movement who felt that it was moving away from tradition too quickly formed the Conservative movement . At the same time,

7437-400: The economy such as in academia , nonprofits , private industry , or government . Francesco Redi , the founder of biology , is recognized to be one of the greatest biologists of all time. Robert Hooke, an English natural philosopher , coined the term cell , suggesting plant structure's resemblance to honeycomb cells. Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace independently formulated

7548-579: The failure to fully employ this gift is a rejection of the will of our Creator. To argue that God's loving plan of salvation for humanity precludes the full employment of the God-given faculty of reason is to attempt to limit God, an act of hubris. We urge school board members to preserve the integrity of the science curriculum by affirming the teaching of the theory of evolution as a core component of human knowledge. We ask that science remain science and that religion remain religion, two very different, but complementary, forms of truth. In addition to English,

7659-518: The field may work in warm or cold climates, in all kinds of weather . The highest honor awarded to biologists is the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine , awarded since 1901, by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Another significant award is the Crafoord Prize in Biosciences; established in 1980. Jewish religious movements Jewish religious movements , sometimes called " denominations ", include diverse groups within Judaism which have developed among Jews from ancient times. Today in

7770-581: The field), depending on the nature of their research. Many biologists depend on grant money to fund their research. They may be under pressure to meet deadlines and to conform to rigid grant-writing specifications when preparing proposals to seek new or extended funding. Marine biologists encounter a variety of working conditions. Some work in laboratories; others work on research ships, and those who work underwater must practice safe diving while working around sharp coral reefs and hazardous marine life. Although some marine biologists obtain their specimens from

7881-402: The findings of science and abandon those claims or adopt them as metaphor." The Universe in a Single Atom Tenzin Gyatso - The Dalai Lama As the above quote indicates, the Buddhist tradition is primarily a rational religion. The earliest Buddhist teachings are intended to help all sentient beings to live a life of integrity in harmony with reality. While the specific science of evolution

7992-628: The greater number of non-Orthodox Jews adhering to other movements (or to none), such that the non-Orthodox are sometimes referred to collectively as the "liberal" or "progressive streams". Other divisions of Judaism in the world reflect being more ethnically and geographically rooted, e.g., Beta Israel ( Ethiopian Jews ), and Bene Israel (among the ancient Jewish communities of India ). Normatively, Judaism excludes from its composition certain groups that may name or consider themselves ethnic Jews but hold key beliefs in sharp contradiction, for example, modern or ancient Messianic Jews . Some Jews reject

8103-570: The importance and role of Jewish observance. Due to the geographical distribution and the geopolitical entities affected by the Enlightenment, this philosophical revolution essentially affected only the Ashkenazi community; however, because of the predominance of the Ashkenazi community in Israeli politics and in Jewish leadership worldwide, the effects have been significant for all Jews. Sephardic Judaism

8214-438: The intellectual circles of Israel are Italian rite Jews ( Italkim ) who are neither Ashkenazi nor Sephardi. These are exclusively descendants of the ancient Roman Jewish community, not including later Ashkenazic and Sephardic migrants to Italy. They practice traditional Orthodox Judaism. The liturgy is served according to a special Italian Nusach ( Nusach ʾItalqi , a.k.a. Minhag B'nei Romì ) and it has similarities with

8325-452: The level of observance, the methodology for interpreting and understanding Jewish law , biblical authorship , textual criticism , and the nature or role of the messiah (or messianic age ). Across these movements, there are marked differences in liturgy , especially in the language in which services are conducted, with the more traditional movements emphasizing Hebrew. The sharpest theological division occurs between traditional Orthodox and

8436-467: The main body, and this separation usually becomes irreparable over time. Within Judaism, individuals and families often switch affiliation, and individuals are free to marry one another, although the major denominations disagree on who is a Jew . It is not unusual for clergy and Jewish educators trained in one of the liberal denominations to serve in another, and left with no choice, many small Jewish communities combine elements of several movements to achieve

8547-537: The middle of the 20th century, the institutional division of North American Jewry between Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox movements still reflected immigrant origins. Reform Jews at that time were predominantly of German or western European origin, while both Conservative and Orthodox Judaism came primarily from eastern European countries. The issue of Zionism was once very divisive in the Jewish community. Religious Zionism , a.k.a. "Nationalist Orthodoxy" ( Dati-leumi ) combines Zionism and Orthodox Judaism, based on

8658-406: The minds of fundamentalists. Rather, our goal is to educate the vast majority of Christians who, if told they have to choose between religion and modern science, are likely to opt for religion." More recently, four additional statements have been added to the project: a Jewish rabbi letter, a Unitarian Universalist clergy letter, a Buddhist clergy letter, and a Humanist clergy letter. Zimmerman and

8769-517: The most striking differences between the Jewish movements in the 21st century is their response to pressures of assimilation, such as intermarriage between Jews and non-Jews. Reform and Reconstructionist rabbis have been most accepting of intermarried couples, with some rabbis willing to officiate in mixed religious ceremonies, although most insist that children in such families be raised strictly Jewish. Conservative rabbis are not permitted to officiate in such marriages, but are supportive of couples when

8880-518: The notion "traditional Judaism" includes the Orthodox with Conservative or solely the Orthodox Jews or exclusively pre-Hasidic pre-modern forms of Orthodoxy. Over time, three main movements emerged (Orthodox, Reform and Conservative Judaism). Orthodox Jews generally see themselves as practicing normative Judaism, rather than belonging to a particular movement. Within Orthodox Judaism, there

8991-745: The nusach of the Greek Romaniote Jews . The Romaniote Jews or the Romaniotes ( Romanyotim ) native to the Eastern Mediterranean is the oldest Jewish community in Europe, whom name is refers to the Eastern Roman Empire . They are also distinct from the Ashkenazim and Sephardim. But, nowadays, few synagogues still use the Romaniote nusach and minhag . Hasidic Judaism —a revivalist movement—was founded by Israel ben Eliezer (1700–1760), also known as

9102-467: The original philosophy of Judaism. That being said, Sephardic and Mizrachi rabbis tend to hold different, and generally more lenient, positions on halakha than their Ashkenazi counterparts, but since these positions are based on rulings of Talmudic scholars as well as well-documented traditions that can be linked back to well-known codifiers of Jewish law, Ashkenazic and Hasidic Rabbis do not believe that these positions are incorrect, but rather that they are

9213-462: The positive intersections of religion and science. The weekend chosen is the closest Sunday to Charles Darwin's birthday, February 12. Evolution Sunday events first took place in 2006 and the project changed from "Sunday" to Weekend" in 2008 to be more inclusive, and in 2022 changed Evolution to Religion and Science. The Clergy Letter Project states that Religion and Science Weekend activities are "an opportunity for serious discussion and reflection on

9324-417: The principles of inheritance in 1866, which became the basis of modern genetics . In 1953, James D. Watson and Francis Crick described the basic structure of DNA, the genetic material for expressing life in all its forms, building on the work of Maurice Wilkins and Rosalind Franklin , suggested that the structure of DNA was a double helix. Ian Wilmut led a research group that in 1996 first cloned

9435-412: The production of important substances, including human insulin and growth hormone. Many other substances not previously available in large quantities are now produced by biotechnological means. Some of these substances are useful in treating diseases. Those working on various genome (chromosomes with their associated genes) projects isolate genes and determine their function. This work continues to lead to

9546-462: The project. Discovery Institute communications director Rob Crowther asserted that the disputes about evolution was "purely a scientific debate" and that clergy petitions are irrelevant, stating that clergy "don't make any difference," since "We don't think there is anything religious at all to the theory of intelligent design." Zimmerman described this argument as part of the problem, as intelligent design tried to undermine science by changing it from

9657-411: The proper relationship between Creator and creation expressed in the only form capable of transmitting these truths from generation to generation. Religious truth is of a different order from scientific truth. Its purpose is not to convey scientific information but to transform hearts. We the undersigned, Christian clergy from many different traditions , believe that the timeless truths of the Bible and

9768-523: The proper way to interpret Holy Scripture . While virtually all Christians take the Bible seriously and hold it to be authoritative in matters of faith and practice, the overwhelming majority do not read the Bible literally , as they would a science textbook . Many of the beloved stories found in the Bible – the Creation , Adam and Eve , Noah and the ark – convey timeless truths about God , human beings , and

9879-408: The public schools would be to assert a particular religious perspective in an environment which is supposed to be free of such indoctrination. The Bible is the primary source of spiritual inspiration and of values for us and for many others, though not everyone, in our society. It is, however, open to interpretation, with some taking the creation account and other content literally and some preferring

9990-646: The science associated with all aspects of evolution." The project states that "The very existence of this list clearly demonstrates the willingness of scientists to work collaboratively with clergy members. Together, scientists and clergy members demonstrate that religion and science can have a complementary and positive relationship with one another." Evolution Weekend often gained attention from several news outlets, with participating clergy being interviewed in local publications. The creationist Discovery Institute , which arranged its own anti-evolution petition called A Scientific Dissent from Darwinism in 2001 criticized

10101-484: The science of evolution to be in conflict with their personal religious beliefs, are seeking to influence public school boards to authorize the teaching of creationism . We see this as a breach in the separation of church and state . Those who believe in a literal interpretation of the Biblical account of creation are free to teach their perspective in their homes, religious institutions and parochial schools . To teach it in

10212-571: The sea, many still spend a good deal of their time in laboratories and offices, conducting tests, running experiments, recording results, and compiling data. Biologists are not usually exposed to unsafe or unhealthy conditions. Those who work with dangerous organisms or toxic substances in the laboratory must follow strict safety procedures to avoid contamination . Many biological scientists, such as botanists, ecologists, and zoologists, conduct field studies that involve strenuous physical activity and primitive living conditions. Biological scientists in

10323-406: The stringent adherence to rabbinical interpretations that some other denominations might require. In terms of religious observance, adherents commonly engage in the lighting of Shabbat candles, recitation of Kiddush, and the enjoyment of communal meals replete with traditional zemirot . This practice is designed to foster a sense of community and spiritual reflection, particularly on Shabbat where

10434-436: The teaching of creationism. We see this as a breach in the separation of church and state. Those who believe in a literal interpretation of the Biblical account of creation are free to teach their perspective in their homes, religious institutions and parochial schools. To teach it in the public schools would be to assert a particular religious perspective in an environment which is supposed to be free of such indoctrination. We

10545-487: The teachings of rabbis Zvi Hirsch Kalischer and Abraham Isaac Kook . The name Hardalim or Haredi-leumi ("Nationalist Haredim") refers to the Haredi-oriented variety of Religious Zionism. Another mode is Reform Zionism as Zionist arm of Reform Judaism. Non-Orthodox Conservative leaders joined Zionist mission. Reconstructionist Judaism also supports Zionism and "the modern state of Israel plays

10656-669: The television program Nightline insisting that decisions about teaching evolution in schools was equivalent to a choice between heaven and hell, he recruited the husband of the head of the university Psychology Department, John McFadden, pastor of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Appleton, Wisconsin, to write a letter describing how science and religion can co-exist. Zimmerman worked with local clergy in Wisconsin to get clergy to sign this letter, and within

10767-949: The term denomination as a label for different groups and ideologies within Judaism, arguing that the notion of denomination has a specifically Christian resonance that does not translate easily into the Jewish context. However, in recent years the American Jewish Year Book has adopted "denomination", as have many scholars and theologians. Commonly used terms are movements , as well as denominations , varieties , traditions , groupings , streams , branches , sectors and sects (for some groups), trends , and such. Sometimes, as an option, only three main currents of Judaism (Orthodox, Conservative and Reform) are named traditions, and divisions within them are called movements. The Jewish groups themselves reject characterization as sects . Sects are traditionally defined as religious subgroups that have broken off from

10878-412: The term is used in a broader sense to include all Jews of Ottoman or other Asian or African backgrounds (Mizrahi Jews), whether or not they have any historic link to Spain, although some prefer to distinguish between Sephardim proper and Mizraḥi Jews. Sephardic and Mizrachi Jewish synagogues are generally considered Orthodox or Sephardic Haredim by non-Sephardic Jews, and are primarily run according to

10989-578: The theory of evolution by natural selection , which was described in detail in Darwin's book On the Origin of Species , which was published in 1859. In it, Darwin proposed that the features of all living things, including humans, were shaped by natural processes of descent with accumulated modification leading to divergence over long periods of time. The theory of evolution in its current form affects almost all areas of biology. Separately, Gregor Mendel formulated

11100-495: The two notorious Jewish false messiahs , Sabbatai Zevi (1626–1676) and Jacob Frank (1726–1791), and their respective followers . Hasidic Judaism eventually became the way of life for many Jews in Eastern Europe. The Hasidim are organized into independent "courts" or dynasties , each dynasty is headed by its own hereditary spiritual leader- rebbe . Unlike other Ashkenazim, most Hasidim use some variation of Nusach Sefard ,

11211-424: The undersigned, Unitarian Universalist clergy, believe that the timeless truths of the Bible and other scriptures may comfortably coexist with the discoveries of modern science. We believe that the theory of evolution is a foundational scientific truth, one that has stood up to rigorous scrutiny and upon which much of human knowledge and achievement rests. To reject this truth or to treat it as "one theory among others"

11322-531: The use of technology is often set aside to maintain a contemplative state. Dietary laws within Communal Judaism adhere to kashrut , the set of Jewish dietary laws, with a focus on traditional observance. This includes abstaining from pork and shellfish and not mixing meat with dairy products, as outlined in the Torah. The connection to the Land of Israel stands as a central tenet of Communal Judaism, emphasizing

11433-484: The west, the most prominent divisions are between traditionalist Orthodox movements (including Haredi ultratraditionalist and Modern Orthodox branches) and modernist movements such as Reform Judaism originating in late 18th century Europe, Conservative ( Masorti ) originating in 19th century Europe, and other smaller ones, including the Reconstructionist and Renewal movements which emerged later in

11544-414: The wonders of science often enhance and deepen their awe and gratitude towards God." The letters are entitled An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science . The four letters have somewhat distinct texts. The Clergy Letter - from American Christian Clergy – An Open Letter Concerning Religion and Science Within the community of Christian believers there are areas of dispute and disagreement, including

11655-533: The world's Jewish population. Sephardi Jews and Mizrahi Jews compose the greatest part of the rest, with about 20% of the world's Jewish population. Israel has two Chief Rabbi —one for the Ashkenazic, another for the Sephardic with Mizrahi Jews. The remaining 5% of Jews are divided among a wide array of small groups (such as various groups of African Jews , most prominently the Beta Israel from Ethiopia who follow

11766-464: The world's religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life," and "Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit." While most Unitarian Universalists believe that many sacred scriptures convey timeless truths about humans and our relationship to the sacred, we stand in solidarity with our Christian and Jewish brothers and sisters who do not read

11877-610: Was at first limited to Christian clergy, and Zimmerman declined offers from Jewish and Muslim clergy. Zimmerman stated that "Since it is fundamentalist Christian ministers who have been shouting to the American people that they must choose between religion and science, it seemed reasonable to have thousands upon thousands of Christian clergy assert otherwise. It simply wouldn't be very persuasive to have leaders of other religions saying to Christians that Christian fundamentalist ministers are not speaking for all Christians...the Clergy Letter Project and Evolution Sunday are not designed to change

11988-661: Was organized in 2004 by Michael Zimmerman, then a biology professor and dean of the College of Science and Letters at University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh . He was motivated to create a petition by the actions of the school board in Grantsburg, Wisconsin , which had passed some anti-evolution policies in the summer of 2004. Zimmerman was a veteran of similar disputes in Ohio , when he was a professor at Oberlin College . After Zimmerman watched Christian fundamentalist clergy from Dover, Pennsylvania , on

12099-628: Was renamed "Evolution Weekend" to incorporate more faith traditions. In 2011, 652 congregations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia as well as 13 countries participated in Evolution Weekend activities. Zimmerman and the Clergy Letter Project maintain a list of 1,052 scientists from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico , and 32 countries, who have agreed to serve as "technical consultants to clergy members who have questions about

12210-510: Was strictly a religion rather than a nation with cultural identity, and that Jews should be assimilated, loyal citizens of their host nations, led to a non-Zionist, and sometimes anti-Zionist , stance. After events of the 20th century, most importantly the Holocaust and the establishment of the modern State of Israel , opposition to Zionism largely disappeared within Reform Judaism. Among most religious non-Zionists, such as Chabad , there

12321-608: Was to become the largest Jewish movement (however, in 1990 Reform Judaism already outpaced Conservatism by 3 percent). After the division between Reform and Orthodox Judaism, the Conservative movement tried to provide Jews seeking liberalization of Orthodox theology and practice, such as female rabbi ordination, with a more traditional and halakhically-based alternative to Reform Judaism. It has spread to Ashkenazi communities in Anglophone countries and Israel. Neolog Judaism ,

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