Tom McLeish - Created for Creativity: What is the Role of Imagination in Scientific Exploration?

Talking Theology

How might medieval history help us rethink contemporary assumptions about science? How does being made in the image of God affirm our vocation to creativity? How do poetry and science belong together? How do contemplation and imagination contribute to scientific endeavour? How can churches recognise science as God's good gift and not just an obstacle to be overcome?
Our guest for this episode is Professor Tom McLeish. Tom is a physicist, academic interdisciplinary leader, and writer. He is inaugural Professor of Natural Philosophy in the Department of Physics at the University of York, and is also affiliated to the University’s Centre for Medieval Studies and Humanities Research Centre. As well as researching the properties of soft matter, Tom is interested in the theory of creativity in art and science, and has writing several books on the subject including The Poetry and Music of Science. Tom is a Council Member for the Royal Society and has been awarded the Lanfranc Award for Education and Scholarship by the Archbishop of Canterbury in recognition of his contribution to science and the dialogue of science and faith.