Alan Lightman’s upcoming talk is based on his latest book, The Miraculous from the Material. He will introduce his concept of “spiritual materialism,” which is a materialist view of the world but one that embraces spiritual experiences. Throughout his remarks, Alan will describe, as well as show, photographs of a number of awe-inducing and beautiful natural phenomena—including rainbows, spider webs, the rings of Saturn, volcanoes, and bioluminescence. He’ll explain the science behind these phenomena and, in many cases, his personal experiences with them. If you’ve heard Alan speak in the past—or read any of his 25 books—you know this will be an illuminating and memorable talk.

Adding to the inspirational quality of this special L.E.D. program, after Alan’s talk and slides, Kerem Shalom’s Rabbi Darby Leigh will provide a Jewish/rabbinic response to the images and ideas Alan presents. Then Alan and Rabbi Darby will participate in a conversation exploring some of the themes raised in Alan’s book, followed by Q&A. Join us for this fascinating program.

Alan Lightman is Professor of the Practice of the Humanities at MIT, a novelist and essayist, a distinguished physicist, and a humanitarian. In 2003, he founded the Harpswell Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower a new generation of women leaders in Cambodia and the developing world. Alan has received numerous accolades and awards for his extensive creative work at the intersection of the sciences and the humanities.

RSVP: https://keremshalom.org/adult-programs/the-miraculous-from-the-material-with-professor-alan-lightman-rabbi-darby/