Alan Lightman

Alan Paige Lightman (born November 28, 1948) is an American physicist, writer, and social entrepreneur. He has served on the faculties of Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and is currently a professor of the practice of the humanities at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Lightman was one of the first persons at MIT to hold a joint faculty position in both the sciences and the humanities. His thinking and writing explore the intersection of the sciences and humanities, especially the multilogues among science, philosophy, religion, and spirituality.

Lightman is a member of the United Nations’ Scientific Advisory Board, reporting directly to the Secretary General. The purpose of this Board is to advise UN leaders on breakthroughs in science and technology and mitigate potential risks, including ethical and social issues.

Lightman is the author of the international bestseller ''Einstein's Dreams''. and his novel ''The Diagnosis'' was a finalist for the National Book Award. He is also the founder of Harpswell, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance a new generation of women leaders in Southeast Asia.

Lightman hosts the public-television series ''Searching: Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science''.

He has received six honorary doctoral degrees. Provided by Wikipedia