PsyRel

Nebraska Religious Discrimination Settlement

2009-11-20T08:31:00.003-05:00

A religious discrimination case at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln has been settled. The case involved a woman, identified as Jane Doe, who claimed she was dismissed from her job as a youth program director after the university learned that she is a practicing witch. Her lawsuit sought to reinstate her employment, as well compensation for lost wages. The university agreed to settle the suit for $40,000.

Religious discrimination lawsuits occur from time to time, but for some reason this one caught my attention. Perhaps the fact that the subject of the lawsuit was a public university, which typically might be expected to represent tolerance for uncommon personal practices, that grabbed my attention. At any rate, the story might be useful for illustrating to students that religions can play an important role in marking social boundaries, etc.

New Essay on PsyRel: The Virtues of Godlessness

2009-11-17T10:30:00.004-05:00

I am pleased to reprint Phil Zuckerman's essay, The Virtues of Godlessness, which appeared earlier this year in The Chronicle of Higher Ed. It offers an application of William James's (among others) effort to judge religion by its effects. In many ways, Zuckerman's analysis addresses some of the same concerns as does Dave Myers, whose Friendly Letter to Skeptics and Atheists I also highly recommend.

Religious Bias Behind University President's Ouster?

2009-11-14T23:44:00.003-05:00

Allegations of religious bias have been raised in the decision to not renew the contract of University of Central Missouri president Aaron Podolefsky. Among other things, the story involves a combination of small-town politics and apparent concern by some in the community that Podolefsky, who is Jewish, did not display a Christmas tree.

Sexual Orientation "Conversion" Therapy: Psychiatric Times

2009-11-13T15:11:00.002-05:00

Psychiatric Times has an article discussing the American Psychological Association study summarizing research on sexual orientation "conversion" therapy. The APA report received much discussion among Division 36 members at the Toronto meeting. The Psychiatric Times story also includes mention of NARTH, which promotes the idea of sexual orientation change through therapy.

Non-Religion and Secularity

2009-11-12T08:29:00.002-05:00

A new group examining non-religion and secularity is launching their organization's first conference next month at Wolfson College, University of Oxford. A friend an sometimes collaborator of mine, Ryan Cragun at the University of Tampa, is joining Colin Campbell (York) and David Voas (Manchester) as keynote speakers at the conference to be held Friday, December 11th. View their site for details and to join the mailing list.

Replace Your APA Style Guide

2009-10-28T07:16:00.003-05:00

I am told that you will be able to replace your first printing of the APA Style Guide (6th edition) by calling APA after November 2nd. According to the Boycott APA Manual, 6th Edition facebook group, you should call 1-800-374-2721, ext. 5510 after Nov. 2, and you will be able to receive instructions for getting a replacement to the error-riddled first printing.

AAR Science-Religion Reception

2009-10-27T07:07:00.002-05:00

At the American Academy of Religion meeting in Montreal next week will be a reception for people interested in science and religion. Sponsored by The Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences, the Institute for Religion in an Age of Science, and the Zygon Center for Religion and Science, the reception will be held Nov. 7, 2009, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m., in the Le Centre Sheraton.

College Teaching = Pastoring?

2009-10-25T11:19:00.000-05:00

Is teaching in a college similar to pastoring a secular church? Robert Young thinks so in his commentary at Inside Higher Ed. Whether you agree or disagree, his piece may provoke you to think about the role of public college faculty, and whether there are religious or spiritual overtones to our line of work.

Helping Students Think and Write

2009-10-23T08:28:00.003-05:00

Helping students think critically and express themselves clearly is a primary goal of most faculty. One way to do this is through an assignment to review a book. Rob Weir, in his Career Advice column offers excellent guidelines for just such an assignment. With the many books relevant to the psychology of religion, Weir's guidance seems ripe for application in our classes. It helps students learn to analyze and synthesize information, and it does this by exposing them to additional information that is relevant to their course. Visit Weir's column and use it in class. Your students will thank you. At least, the ones who want to learn will thank you.

Glimpse inside the Taliban

2009-10-19T22:29:00.003-05:00

Readers of the New York Times can learn about the Taliban through David Rohde's series, Held by the Taliban. A Times reporter, Rohde was captured by while trying to interview a Taliban commander to complete a story he was working on. After being reassured somewhat by others, he left for the interview only to be taken captive by the very commander he sought to interview. His seven-month captivity gives readers insight into Taliban life, and offers many examples of psychological concepts. It is fascinating reading. You may need to register with the Times to read the story, but you can do so without receiving any unwanted mail from them.

A Schism Among Atheists?

2009-10-19T12:13:00.004-05:00

A question I have seen raised recently, concerning a possible "schism" among atheists, is explored in this NPR story. The question appears to hinge on whether it is more productive to promote atheism by directly discounting or even ridiculing religious belief, or is it more productive to form alliances where possible with religious groups or individuals on areas of common concern. The article cites critics of religion such as Christopher Hitchens, whose book God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything is one of several published in recent years presenting a forceful case for atheism. Paul Kurz is offered as representing a quieter approach, less in-your-face and more respectful toward religion. An example of his way of promoting atheism is expressed well in this post at scienceblogs.com. Several interrelated questions are interesting to me: How much of this discussion reflects basic personality dimensions, or preferences based on personality? And is one "persuasion" approach more effective for some people than for others? Would "conversions" to atheism through the two methods differ in terms of how long they last? The list could go on, but it would be fascinating to see more research on such questions.

Towards a Unified Science of Religion: University of Otago

2009-10-15T08:42:00.002-05:00

Towards a Unified Science of Religion
A Conference Sponsored by the Department of Philosophy,
University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand

http://www.otago.ac.nz/philosophy/USR_Home.html

12-14 February 2010.

Abstract

The belief in gods, demons, and other supernatural agents is a persistent
feature of human culture, which cries out for explanation. In the last
twenty-five years explanations of religion have reached a new level of
sophistication. We now have a range of different scientific theories of
religion, in cognitive science, anthropology, and evolutionary psychology,
drawing upon a significant body of empirical data. This conference,
sponsored by the Department of Philosophy at the University of Otago, will
bring together researchers from these different disciplines and different
theoretical perspectives, to explore the possibility of a unified science
of religion.

Call for Papers

Participants are invited to submit paper proposals presenting original
research on any topic related to the theme of the conference. The proposal
should take the form of an abstract of no more than 200 words, and should
be submitted electronically (along with contact details) to the conference
secretary: Jonathan Jong (jonathan/at/psy.otago.ac.nz) by 15 December 2009.

Further Information

Further details about registration and accommodation and will be available
on this site soon. The conference programme will be available on this site
in late December.

Conference Organisers: James Maclaurin and Greg Dawes.
Conference Secretary: Jonathan Jong

File it under "Irony"

2009-10-13T10:06:00.003-05:00

Maybe this is just a new way to screen for OCD, but the new edition of the APA Style Manual, published a few months ago, includes what the APA gently calls "nonsignificant typos." An article at Inside Higher Ed reports many people are calling for replacement copies of the style manual, which seems reasonable to many people. But not to APA, which surely makes big money from its sales. Given that the APA council of representatives are reported to have spent a great deal of time discussing the organization's finances, I don't imagine you will be able to return your copy of the style manual for a replacement.

I do like the suggestion of one person who commented at the Inside Higher Ed article, that the APA could put a corrected copy online. I like the suggestion, but of course that's different than saying I expect it to happen.

You can view the list of corrections here.

Psychology of Religion Instructor Wins Award

2009-10-12T07:45:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Ralph Quinn for winning Distinguished Teaching Award at UC Santa Cruz. Quinn, a lecturer in psychology for 25 years, was also recognized for excellence in teaching in 1992. A press release offers more information.

Videos of Heaven's Gate

2009-10-12T07:44:00.000-05:00

Videos showing Heaven's Gate leader Marshall Applewhite (known as Do by his followers) are now being made available on youtube. Go to 1RiverOfAngels' youtube feed to view them. You can also view the Heaven's Gate Website and some related materials on my webpage.

Darwin for Creationists

2009-10-08T17:32:00.003-05:00

Inside Higher Ed reports that an anti-evolution group plans to distribute 100,000 copies of Darwin's Origin of Species, with an introduction intended to undercut the book's thesis. Given news that conservative Christians are at work framing the Bible itself so that it conforms more clearly with their beliefs, it seems a small leap to do similar work on Darwin's classic.

If you enjoy the topic, take a look at this cartoon from Dan Piraro. His version of The Ascent of Snow Man will give you a smile.

"Conserving" the Bible

2009-10-06T07:20:00.002-05:00

You likely have come across this item already, but I am posting it here just in case. Conservapedia's Bible Project is underway to enhance the Bible so that it better reflects conservative values or assumptions. When I have checked the page, it has been so busy that I received a "Failed to Open Page" error. You can view a summary of the project, however, at this Beliefnet page.

American Nones

2009-10-03T08:34:00.002-05:00

A new report, American Nones: The Profile of the No Religion Population announces that 15% of the US populace selects "None" when asked about their religious preference. Based on the American Religious Identification Survey, authors Kosmin, Keysar, Cragun and Navarro-Rivera further analyze the ARIS data to uncover the demographic and social characteristics of this group, which has nearly doubled in its presence in the US over the past 18 years. Although they focus on social and demographic characteristics, the report is fascinating. Men are more likely to report "None" than are women, and the nature of their belief also differs, with more men reporting agnosticism and women more likely to report theism. "Nones" are similar to religious believers in terms of economics and several other characteristics. Politically, they are less likely to be republicans and more likely to be independents.

An unanswered question is what factors account for the increase in Nones during the 1990s. Nevertheless, the report is fascinating and deserves to be widely read.

Embodying Reality Within: Inner Change in a New Political Era

2009-10-02T15:21:00.002-05:00

Gerald Virtbauer has kindly allowed me to reprint his commentary, Embodying Reality Within: Inner Change in a New Political Era. From a Buddhist perspective, Dr. Virtbauer discusses the question of change in an individual and social context. I am embarrassed to admit that he sent this to me several months ago, but I discovered it buried in my inbox and realized that I neglected to post it. My apologies to you, Dr. Virtbauer.

In a similar vein, I have begun to get caught up with updating the Research and Teaching Exchange. If you sent information to me but have not seen it added, please try again. I have not made my goal in updating the website as regularly as I hope. Sometimes our labors of love must wait for, well, other labors.

Moral Reasoning on TED

2009-09-28T09:54:00.003-05:00

"People may not be logical, but few of them are crazy.... When it comes to moral persuasion, the way to the head is through the heart." Jonathan Haidt has a lot to teach us about social judgment, with implications for religion/morality. Read about it on TED. His discussion is focused on health care, but seems relevant to many other areas.

Conference: New Religious Movements, in Ireland

2009-09-25T15:03:00.003-05:00

The conference on new religious movements in Ireland is almost one month away. If you wish to present a poster at the conference, the deadline has been extended to October 23rd. For more information on the conference, visit the NRM Ireland website. Conference organizers also are providing updates on their blog.

In Memory of James E. Dittes, 1926-2009

2009-09-24T08:07:00.003-05:00

I was saddened to learn of the death of James E. Dittes. Donald Capps, his friend and colleague, has very kindly permitted me to share his tribute. Please, visit and learn about Professor Dittes' accomplishments, not only in the psychology of religion, but also in the way he touched the lives of his students and colleagues. He will be missed.

Aarhus University PhD Opportunities

2009-09-23T08:41:00.002-05:00

PhD scholarships and fellowships

The Graduate School of Theology and the Study of Religion at the Faculty of Theology, Aarhus University invites highly qualified applicants to apply for admission to a PhD scholarship or fellowship commencing 1 February 2010 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The Faculty’s current research strengths are in a wide range of subject areas, including Biblical Studies; Church History and Practical Theology; Ethics, Philosophy of Religion, and Dogmatics; Religion and cognition; Sociology of Religion; World Religions; and Arab and Islamic Studies.

About 35 PhD students are enrolled at the Graduate School. Topics being studied currently can be seen under ongoing projects http://www.teo.au.dk/en/research/current.

Our PhD programmes consist of the following elements:
• Completion of an independent research project under supervision and preparation of a PhD dissertation based on the project.
• A course component corresponding to 30 ECTS.
• Acquisition of experience in teaching activities or other forms of communicating knowledge.
• An opportunity to work in a supportive research environment, including periods of study at other research institutions, mainly abroad, or by other means.

The most widely used language at the Graduate School is English. Our study environment features close, informal contact between supervisors and PhD students. Our teaching and IT facilities are of a very high standard, and our well-equipped library provides excellent resources for research activities. We attach great importance to the quality of supervision provided to PhD students. Our PhD supervisors therefore complete special courses in supervision.

Requirements for admission
Enrolment as a PhD student at the Graduate School is a prerequisite for being granted a PhD scholarship or fellowship. Enrolment is possible at two different stages:
• Applicants who hold a relevant BA degree of 180 ECTS and have, prior to 1 February 2010, satisfactorily completed courses corresponding to 60 ECTS of a relevant MA degree programme may apply for PhD scholarships and will, if successful, be enrolled into a 4-year dual MA/PhD degree programme (4+4).
• Applicants who hold a relevant BA degree of 180 ECTS and have, prior to 1 February 2010, satisfactorily completed a relevant MA degree consisting of at least 120 ECTS, may apply for PhD fellowships and will, if successful, be enrolled directly into a 3-year PhD degree programme (5+3).

In assessing applications, we focus on candidates’ ability to present an original and interesting research project that can contribute productively to one of our current research environments.

For successful candidates, Aarhus University can assist in finding suitable accommodation and in arranging any necessary work or residence permits. The Faculty of Theology provides office space and computer facilities.

Conditions for PhD scholarships and fellowships
Recipients of PhD scholarships and fellowships are entitled to free tuition and to a monthly payment for living expenses:
• A 4-year PhD scholarship consists of two parts. For the first two years (part A) the recipient receives a monthly payment (before tax) of approximately DKK 10,000. For the last two years (part B), the recipient is employed as a PhD research fellow and receives a monthly salary (before tax) of approximately DKK 28,000, including pension contributions. At the end of part A, a Danish MA degree is obtained. The transition from part A to part B requires that part A has been satisfactorily completed.
• The recipient of a 3-year PhD fellowship is employed as a PhD research fellow for three years and receives a monthly salary (before tax) of approximately DKK 28,000, including pension contributions. The holder of a fellowship (unlike the holder of a scholarship) will be expected to carry out duties equivalent to 840 working hours of teaching, communication of research, participation in research projects, etc.

Further information and contact details
For further information see Information for PhD applicants, where you will find the Faculty’s PhD regulations, or contact the Chair of the Graduate School, Troels Nørager (e-mail: tn@teo.au.dk, or tel: +45 8942 2243).

Application procedures
Applications for enrolment as a PhD student and for either a PhD scholarship or a fellowship must be submitted electronically through the University’s “self-service“ system. This will be available from 15 September 2009. See Guidelines for Application.

Deadline for submissions: Thursday 15 October 2009, 12.00 noon (Danish time).

Please mark your application: 2009-218/4-23.

Aarhus University offers a good and inspiring education and research environment for 35,000 students and 8,500 members of staff, who produce academic results of a high international standard. The budgeted turnover for 2009 amounts to EUR 700 million. The university’s strategy and development contract are available at www.au.dk.

Position Announcement - Clinical / Counseling Psych.

2009-09-15T13:24:00.003-05:00

The Psychology Department at Georgia Southern University, where I spend many of my waking hours, is hiring a clinical or counseling psychologist (rank open) to work with undergraduate and graduate (Psy.D.) students. This is a very collegial group of faculty who are dedicated to the profession. Information about the position is available here (pdf file). Please pass this announcement along to others who would like to help in a new Psy.D. program.

Zygon Course

2009-09-11T07:39:00.003-05:00

If you are in the Chicago area, you may wish to know about this course from Zygon:

The Zygon Center for Religion and Science invites you to “The Epic of Creation: Scientific, Biblical, and Theological Perspectives on Our Origins.” This course, offered as a free public lecture series and as a graduate-level seminary course, will meet Monday evenings, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM, September 14 through December 7, 2009, at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, near the University of Chicago in the Hyde Park neighborhood. Leading scientists will present the scientific story of the emergence and evolution of the universe, life, and humans; noted biblical scholars will provide insights on the biblical story of creation; and distinguished theologians will offer theological reflections on the epic of creation.

The Epic of Creation schedule for Fall 2009 is attached and is also available at http://zygoncenter.org/epic_schedule_09.html. All lectures are free and open to the public; no advance registration is required to attend unless you wish to receive course credit. Course credit is available via registration through the the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) or cross-registration through member schools of the Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS). For more information, visit http://www.zygoncenter.org, or call 773-256-0670. Please join us for an unforgettable epic!