The Theology, Ecology and Natural Science section invites papers and panels that address the intersections among theology, ecology and the natural sciences and their relationship to the "inter-related components of globalization," as suggested by the conference theme of "Religion, Economics, and Culture in Conflict and Conversation." Below are some of the questions that could be explored:

1. How does Neo-Darwinian evolutionary theory inform theological responses to the globalization of economics? Does an evolutionary approach support or oppose a just distribution of resources within the global community?
2. How might what is termed the "new cosmology" or "common creation story" shape moral decision-making regarding economic relationships? How might this cosmological perspective support Catholic Social Teaching on "economic justice for all"?
3. Based on the insights of quantum physics, Margaret Wheatley asserts in her book Leadership and the New Science, "In the quantum world, relationships are not just interesting. To many physicists, they are all there is to reality" (p. 34). How might this constitutive relationality impact the distribution of resources and the scope of participation in a global economy? What might "right relationship" (social justice) look like in the global marketplace?
4. Recently we have seen the "globalization" of various ecological issues (climate change, loss of biodiversity). In what ways does globalization enhance efforts at ecological ethics, and in what ways does it hinder it? When ecological problems span cultural and national boundaries, how should theologians respond?
5. Globalization is making human communities increasingly economically interdependent. How does the ecological notion of interdependence relate to, align with, or critique the growing economic interdependence among countries and nations?

Compelling topics not directly related to the annual conference theme will also be considered. Clarity, focus, and pertinence to the topic area are the hallmarks of successful submissions. Proposals, including title, abstract, author, institutional affiliation, and contact information, should be sent via email to Gloria L. Schaab at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by December 1, 2009.