Location: AMSTERDAM FTE: 0.8 - 1 VU unit: Faculty of Humanities, Department of Philosophy, & Faculty of Religion and Theology, Department Beliefs and Practices Job descriptionThe aim of this 1-year postdoc is to carry out a replication study of John Hedley Brooke’s 1991 monograph Science and Religion: Some Historical Perspectives (2nd ed. 2014). While the subtitle of this book may suggest that this is a somewhat loose collection of essays, it is in fact a coherent monograph that defends, on the basis of a large number of case-studies, the so-called complexity thesis against both the conflict thesis and apologetic attempts to use science to defend religion. Brooke’s complexity thesis has been championed by many in the science & religion field. However, it has also been severely criticized, among others by Canadian sociologist Yves Gingras (e.g., in Science and Religion: An Impossible Dialogue (Cambridge: Polity Press 2017)). Such writings have themselves given rise to further criticisms and counter-criticisms, for instance, by Peter Harrison. It would, therefore, be desirable if the main conclusions of John Brooke’s original book could be replicated. In order for the project to be feasible, the postdoc will focus on the results of chapter III of the book, which argues that there is a positive correlation between religious reform and scientific reform.
RequirementsCandidates should hold a PhD in the discipline of religion studies, philosophy or any other relevant field in the humanities. The candidate should have demonstrable affinity with the contemporary science & religion debate. Excellent spoken and written English as well as strong academic writing skills are essential. What are we offering?A challenging position in a socially involved organization. On full-time basis the remuneration amounts to a gross monthly salary of € 3.491 (scale 10.5). The job profile 'Onderzoeker 4' is based on the university job ranking system and is vacant for at least 0.8 FTE.
About Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamThe ambition of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is clear: to contribute to a better world through outstanding education and ground-breaking research. We strive to be a university where personal development and commitment to society play a leading role. A university where people from different disciplines and backgrounds collaborate to achieve innovations and to generate new knowledge. Our teaching and research encompass the entire spectrum of academic endeavor – from the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences through to the life sciences and the medical sciences. The Philosophy Department ApplicationAre you interested in this position? Please apply via the application button until April 25, 2021.
Applications received by e-mail will not be processed.
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