“Naturalism and Proper Explanations” - with guest presenter Dr. Ivan Phillips
Ivan says: "What is naturalism? Is it a faith that nothing supernatural exists? And what does it mean for something to be supernatural?
"One approach to answering these questions can be found in the study of explanations. When we are careful to exclude specious explanations (i.e., claims that look explanatory but aren't), we find that every proper explanation derives from a predictive, natural framework. Consequently, a 'supernatural explanation' is an oxymoron, because the term 'supernatural' is synonymous with 'ultimately inexplicable'.
"This approach to naturalism is non-dogmatic, and it provides very strong arguments against theism, intelligent design pseudoscience, and mind-body dualism."
Come hear our own Dr. Phillips this morning! Ivan was born in England and attended Highland Park High School. He earned his doctorate in Theoretical Physics from Northwestern University, studying the differences between matter and anti-matter. He is the founder and CEO of Pendragon Software Corporation in Libertyville, Illinois where he has been developing mobile software applications for the last 15 years.
Please join us for this interesting morning, which will include Ivan's presentation, a Q&A session with Ivan, and usually some additional time for roundtable discussion! We provide the hot coffee, and we welcome pastry and snack donations.
Non-CFI Members will be asked for a modest contribution.
Questions? Just call our (part time) office phone: 312-226-0420.
The CFI/Chicago is uniquely positioned to help you live a secular, inquiring, joyful life in Chicago. Join us, won't you?
