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Last Updated: January 6, 2010 8:54 AM

Science & Religion

Movie Essay

The relationship between science and religion is a theme of quite a few movies. Some of these movies intend to educate viewers, some try to push a particular agenda, and others just want to entertain us.

This assignment has three parts that require you watch and respond to one of the movies below. Completing this assignment earns you two bonus points toward the unit(s) of your choice.

Part 1: Watch

• Chose one of the movies below to watch:
  • Angels and Demons
  • Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed
  • Root of All Evil?
  • What the Bleep do We Know!?
  • Religulous

Part 2: Review

• Read the review below that corresponds to the movie you watched.
  • Angels & Demons
  • Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed
  • Root of All Evil?
  • What the Bleep do We Know!?
  • Religulous
• Research and read another review of the movie you chose.
  • Chose a review from a credible, independent source (like a newspaper or online news source), not from the people who made the movie and not from some random person's blog.
  • You will need to cite this review in your essay so be sure to copy the links.

Part 3: Respond

• Write an essay that includes responses to the following:
  • What is the message or thesis of this movie?
  • Explain how this movie portray science and religion? Which of the four positions from Ian Barbour's typology does this movie portray or advocate? Pay attention to how terms like "faith", "belief", "religion," and "science" are defined.
  • Summarize the two reviews you read.
  • Write a response expressing your views on the movie. What points did you agree with? What points are you critical of?

Due Date: The last day of class prior to final exam week.