Hess, Peter M. J.

Peter M. J. Hess is a historian of science and senior program director at the National Center for Science Education. He holds a PhD in historical theology from the Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, and has taught at several universities including the University of San Francisco. His scholarly work focuses on the historical relationship between Christianity and science, particularly examining how Catholic thought has engaged with scientific developments from the medieval period through modernity. In "Catholicism and Science" (2008), Hess challenges common misconceptions about inherent conflict between Catholic faith and scientific inquiry, demonstrating instead a complex history of dialogue, patronage, and intellectual exchange. His research emphasizes that the Catholic tradition has often fostered scientific investigation rather than opposing it, contributing significantly to contemporary discussions about the compatibility of religious belief and scientific understanding.