On 4 November the University of Macau (UM) will hold a Doctor honoris causa Lecture Series, which is part of UM’s 30th anniversary Lecture Series. Renowned evolutionary geneticist and molecular biologist Prof. Francisco J. Ayala will be the speaker, and his topic will be “Science and Religion: Conflict or Concert?” On the following day, UM will hold a ceremony to confer a Degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa upon Prof. Ayala.

Today, many religious denominations accept that biological evolution has produced the diversity of living things over billions of years of the Earth’s history. Many have issued statements observing that evolution and the tenets of their faiths are compatible. Scientists and theologians have written eloquently about their awe and wonder at the history of the universe and of life on this planet, explaining that they see no conflict between their faith in God and the evidence for evolution. In this central human controversy, Prof. Ayala holds that science and religion should be viewed as different ways of understanding the world and that the evidence for evolution can be fully compatible with religious faith.

At the lecture Prof. Ayala will discuss the overwhelming evidence in support of biological evolution and will evaluate the alternative perspectives offered by advocates of various kinds of creationism. He will also explore the many fascinating inquiries being pursued. For educators, students, teachers, community leaders, legislators, policy makers, and parents who seek to understand the basis of evolutionary science, this lecture will provide a precious opportunity to hear the insights of Prof. Ayala and to discuss questions with him.

The lecture will take place at 17:00 on 4 November (Friday) at UM’s Cultural Centre. It will be conducted in English, with simultaneous interpretation into Mandarin. For on-line registration, please visit https://isw.umac.mo/ayala/faces/index.jspx. For enquiries, please call 83974339 or 83974332.