The Templeton Foundation will support exploration of the nature of religious belief and practice; they will invest in basic scientific research that could shape how we think about human existence; they will encourage theological and philosophical reflection on the fruits of scientific discovery; and ask whether certain virtues such as gratitude, curiosity, and humility contribute to human flourishing.
Across these priorities, the activities the foundation supports will take three distinct but complementary forms: first, research that aims to produce novel discoveries; second, public engagement that promotes dissemination of these insights; and third, programs that investigate intellectual humility and encourage its practice by fostering curiosity, open-mindedness, and civil dialogue.
Altogether, the foundation’s investment in these 12 priorities will account for 80 percent of grantmaking over the next five years in the Science & the Big Questions funding area, totaling approximately $325 million. At the same time, they will continue to accept innovative proposals that do not fit into these priorities in our Open Funding Track.
The12 strategic priorities for 2019-2023 are:
- Dynamics of Religious Change
- Intellectual Humility
- Mathematics & Physical Sciences
- Religious Cognition
- Health, Religion & Spirituality
- Cultural Evolution
- Science of Character Virtue
- Science of Purpose
- Public Engagement
- Science-Engaged Theology
- Programs in Islam
- Programs in Latin America
Please contact Daniel Hadley if you are interested in applying to this opportunity.