Beyond Atheism and Theism: 

Einstein and Spinoza's Orientation to Sacredness


In this 8-week course, John will draw on theology, cognitive science and philosophy to argue for a non-theistic stance toward the sacred.

If you find yourself torn between rationality and spirituality, science and mysticism, facts and belief; The Lectern's inaugural 8-week course will offer you a new lens through which to reflect on these dilemmas.

Course Overview

Through live lectures, discussions with John, and guided reflective assignments, we will explore how Einstein and Spinoza can show us important principles that underlie what makes science possible, what drives our desire for truth, and how we can be transformed by it.

Why Einstein and Spinoza?

Einstein and Spinoza each demonstrate how the current, popular versions of both theism and atheism overlook the reality that these positions are fundamentally intertwined with the scientific worldview. 

Therefore, an orientation towards the sacred that does not remove us from the scientific worldview is at least indispensable, perhaps even necessary.

Live Teaching and Engagement
2 Hour sessions taught live by John Vervaeke consisting of a lecture and a seminar discussion.


Reflective Assignments
Synthesize your learning with guided writing assignments. Optional but encouraged.



Peer Discussions
Meet with fellow students to discuss and accelerate your progress.





Criticisms of/from Einstein and Spinoza

John outlines some potential criticisms of Einstein and from Spinoza towards his argument.

Curriculum Preview

(full texts not included, excerpts may be provided)


  A Theory of Everything (That Matters) by Alister McGrath
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Einstein and Religion by Max Jammer
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Spinoza’s Science: The Ethics of Knowledge by Louis Russell
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Spinoza’ Radical Theology by Charlie Huenemann
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Spinoza’s Religion by Clare Carlisle
Available in days
days after you enroll

Scholastic Disclaimers

John prefaces gaps in his own knowledge to provide caveats for his line of argument.

Learning Outcomes

In a world trapped by polarizations, Einstein and Spinoza offer a path to reintegrate spirituality with the best science and philosophy of our time. Through this course you will:

  1. Learn how critical paradigms of science and theology influence each other.
  2. Apply philosophical theory to personal practices for existential transformation.
  3. Understand how cognitive science can help bridge science and spirituality.


Ready to bridge the gap between science and spirituality?

Course begins October 18th, Every Friday, 2PM - 4PM EST


Enroll today to join John Vervaeke and fellow thoughtful students as we embark on the first steps of
the Philosophical Silk Road through the minds of Einstein and Spinoza.

Tuition Fees

Current university students are eligible for financial aid. If you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, please email [email protected] with the subject [Lectern Student Aid]
and your proof of status e.g. student ID, to qualify.

Note: Financial aid does not apply to bundles listed below.

Pricing Options

Dyad Bundle

Enroll with a friend to receive $100 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $333/month

Triad Bundle

Enroll with 2 friends to receive $150 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $450/month

Tetrad Bundle

Enroll with 3 friends to receive $200 off the tuition fee each

Courses: 1

3 payments of $533/month

FAQs


  • Is this course for me if I’m not familiar with philosophy or science?

Yes! This course is designed to be accessible to both beginners and those with experience. John will hold a seminar after each lecture to answer any questions you might have.

  • Do I need to have specific religious or scientific beliefs to benefit from the course?

No. The course is open to everyone, regardless of religious or scientific background. It’s about exploring diverse perspectives and finding a way to integrate them into your life.

  • How does the course handle the potential conflict between faith and reason?

The course doesn’t ask you to choose between faith and reason. Instead, it offers frameworks that show how these two areas can complement each other.

  • Will this course challenge my current beliefs?

Yes, the course is designed to provoke deep reflection. It introduces perspectives that will encourage you to question and reconsider long-held beliefs, fostering growth and deeper understanding.

  • Is the course compatible with my spiritual practice?

Absolutely. The course aims to deepen and enrich your spiritual practice by providing new tools to understand and engage with your practice through science and philosophy.

  • I’m worried I won’t understand the material. Is it too advanced?

Not at all! The course breaks down complex ideas into simple, easy-to-understand concepts, ensuring that whether you’re new to philosophy or well-versed, you’ll gain valuable insights.

  • What if I can’t attend live sessions or keep up with the pace?

All materials, including live session recordings, will be available to you anytime. You can go through the content at your own pace, fitting it around your schedule.

  • Is there any interaction with the instructor or other students?

Yes! You will have the opportunity to engage with John and fellow students throughout the course.

  • How much time will I need to commit each week?

Expect to spend 3-4 hours per week on videos, readings, and optional discussions.