Species Extinction: Who cares? Why?

We are witnessing the 6th major extinction event on the planet. Do we care? If so, why?

After 40 years working professionally in the field of conservation biology, Mike Clarke will explore the place of science and competing world views in addressing the challenge that species extinctions pose to life on this planet.

We will examine and explore:

• The power and limitations of science in discerning a way forward.
• Why we care whether or not a species becomes extinct.
• Why understanding our motivations matters.

Following Mike Clarke’s talk, will be a response from Deborah Storie picking up theological themes raised by Mike and offering her own commentary.

Join us for this exclusively in-person event as we discuss:

• Are our beliefs about God a stimulus for action or a refuge in the face of a frightening future?
• What unique responsibilities and opportunities might people of faith have at this pivotal time in the earth’s history?

This is a free event, however registrations are required.

We invite you to join us for dinner with the speakers at Young and Jackson’s Hotel across the road from the Cathedral. Let us know in your registration form if you are joining us for dinner.

Speaker: Emeritus Professor of Zoology Mike Clarke, Research Centre for Future Landscapes, La Trobe University

Professor Mike Clarke is an ecologist and conservation biologist at La Trobe University. He was Head of the School of Life Sciences from 2011 to 2019. He was, until recently, a member of the Board of Directors of Parks Victoria. He conducts research that informs conservation action and is actively involved in ensuring that conservation policy and practice is based on the best available evidence. He is a Fellow of ISCAST  Christianity and Science in Conversation, and in 2023 was elected a Fellow of Birdlife Australia. He is fascinated by the natural world and passionate about its proper stewardship for future generations.

Respondent: Rev. Dr Deborah Storie

Rev. Dr Deborah Storie initially trained as a veterinary surgeon and worked with international community development and disaster mitigation projects for over a decade.  She commenced biblical studies at Whitley College on her return to Australia.  Her PhD was titled Contesting Public Transcripts in Biblical Studies: An Adventure with Zacchaeus. She has taught in several theological programs over the last fifteen years. She is an accredited Baptist pastor and is currently Senior Pastor at East Doncaster Baptist Church.