The Catholic Scientist

Episode 19: Andrew Sodergren, A Catholic Approach to Gender Dysphoria

Dr. Sodergren, a practicing psychologist at Ruah Woods Psychological Services in Cincinnati, delivers a talk entitled “Integrating Body and Soul: Principles for a Catholic Approach to Gender Dysphoria.” Dr. Sodergren is an active member of the Catholic Psychotherapy Association and is a frequent speaker for professional and lay audiences on topics involving the integration of psychology and the Catholic faith. In 2022, Dr.Sodergren contributed a chapter on the “Psychology of the Sexual Difference” to the book Sexual Identity: The Harmony of Philosophy, Science,and Revelation [https://stpaulcenter.com/product/sexual-identity-the-harmony-of-philosophy-science-and-revelation/] published by the St. Paul Center.  In this talk, he discusses the data behind the recent increase in gender dysphoria cases and how Catholic psychologists can best help individuals with gender dysphoria.

Episode 18: Matthew Ramage, The Theology of Pope Benedict on Creation

Dr. Matthew Ramage, a Professor of Theology at Benedictine College and a Scholar Associate of SCS, is the guest on this episode of The Catholic Scientist. Dr. Ramage discusses his research and writing on the theology of Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI, with a particular focus on the dialogue between faith and science. He discusses his latest book, The Essential Guide to Ratzinger: The Man and His Message (OSV Press), as well as how he got interested in the intersection between science and Catholic theology.  He also describes his latest project, The Two Books Network, which he hopes to be a resource hub for those interested in engaging creation from the heart of the Church. Further information on the Society of Catholic Scientists and the work it does can be found ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ [https://catholicscientists.org/%20]. https://catholicscientists.org/

Episode 17: Laura Upenieks, Factors that Shape Views on Science and Faith

Dr. Laura Upenieks, an Associate Professor of Sociology at Baylor University discusses her work investigating the intersection of religious belief, religious practice, and attitudes toward science. In particular, she delves into the factors that shape how young people view matters of faith and science. She discusses how the level of perceived conflict is related to the level of trust individuals have in both scientists and religious leaders. With trust in authority continuing to erode throughout society in general, she offers possible ways to approach young people to build the connections that are necessary to help them better integrate faith and science. Further information on the Society of Catholic Scientists and the work it does can be found ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ [https://catholicscientists.org/%20]. https://catholicscientists.org/

Episode 16: Stephen Barr, Creation and the Big Bang

Dr. Stephen Barr, the President of the Society of Catholic Scientists and author of Modern Physics and Ancient Faith, discusses the relationship between the Catholic understanding of Creation and the science regarding the Big Bang. Is the Big Bang “proof” of the Catholic dogma of Creation? Is the Big Bang the beginning of the material universe? What is the relationship between Creation and the origins of the universe? Did the universe actually have a beginning in time? Dr. Barr discusses these and other related questions in this episode.    Further information onthe Society of Catholic Scientists and the work it does can be found ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ [https://catholicscientists.org/%20]. https://catholicscientists.org/

Episode 15: Peter Kilpatrick, Faith and Science in Catholic Higher Education

Dr. Peter Kilpatrick, President of the Catholic University of America (CUA), discusses the unique role that Catholic institutions have in the landscape of higher education as well as how CUA in looking to fulfill that role. Toward this end, he discusses recent initiatives launched at the Catholic University of America around science and faith including one on artificial intelligence. Dr. Kilpatrick also shares his professional and personal journey that led him to eventually being named the 16th president in CUA’s history.