For centuries, we’ve assumed that science has banished the transcendent and established that reality is entirely physical. But signs are emerging that dogmatic materialism might be holding science back. Scientists face growing criticism for leaning on the fuzzy notion of “emergence” to account for everything from consciousness to spacetime – a convenient placeholder, critics say, for what materialist science cannot explain. Biologists like Michael Levin argue that genes and environment alone can’t fully explain life’s complexity, instead pointing to “causal input … that originates outside the material world,” while physicists from Heisenberg to Hawking have concluded that science gives us models of reality rather than final descriptions of its true nature. Materialism may have enabled science to reach beyond the dogmas of religion, but there are now those who are restlessly probing the limits of materialism itself. 

Does materialist science have fundamental limitations? Might a new metaphysics help science make progress on the big questions of the day, from the origin of life to the mysteries of quantum gravity? Or would abandoning materialism be a regressive move, returning us to the comforting myths of superstition and religion?

Our February event will dive into the ideas shaping tomorrow’s world where breakthroughs and controversies collide, and every assumption is up for debate. Expect headline speakers, groundbreaking discussions, and fresh perspectives that bridge science, philosophy, and culture.

Join us for a thought-provoking mix of live debates, interviews, and solo talks with the world’s leading thinkers. Be part of the conversation that redefines the future of ideas.

STAY TUNED - more is coming soon. Click here to join our newsletter and be the first to receive updates.