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Charles H. Townes was Professor Emeritus of Physics at the University of California, Berkeley, who shared the 1964 Nobel Prize in Physics for his investigations into the properties of microwaves which resulted first in the maser and, later, his co-invention of the laser.
His 1966 article, “The Convergence of Science and Religion,” established him as a voice seeking commonality between the two disciplines. He described his 1951 discovery of the principles of the maser—while sitting on a park bench—as a “revelation” and an example of the interplay between the “how” and “why” of science and religion.
There are many mysteries in science. We seem to know only about five percent of the matter in our universe – this is such a small fraction, and what is the remainder? We assume the laws of physics are constant, and have faith in that, but could they suddenly change? And if not, why not? Quantum mechanics and general relativity are wonderful, and tell us a lot. But it appears they are not consistent with each other. What is it we are missing?
Featured News
May 5, 2005
Bringer of Light: Tim Radford meets the Christian scientist whose revelations led to the laser
The Guardian
March 12, 2005
Laser pioneer aims for God
The Globe and Mail
March 11, 2005
Our Special Universe
The Wall Street Journal
March 10, 2005
Physicist to Get Templeton Prize For Progress in Spiritual Matters
The New York Times
March 10, 2005
Physicist wins spirituality prize
Los Angeles Times
March 10, 2005
Religion, science mesh
Associated Press
March 10, 2005
Steve Inskeep interviews Charles Townes
National Public Radio "Morning Edition"
March 10, 2005
A life where science and faith coexist
Christian Science Monitor
March 9, 2005
Charles Townes Wins Templeton Prize
Science
