The mission of the Religion and Public Life Program is to encourage productive conversations about religion and public life, not only within the academy, but also between the academy and the general public, including scholars who study religion and religious leaders from different traditions. The RPLP recognizes that issues involving religion and the public—including debates about evolution, embryonic stem cell research, immigrant rights, and religious expression in the political and business world—often become divisive in language and rhetoric. As a forum for research and engagement involving institutions, social groups, and individuals, the RPLP is committed to mediating these conversations. Ultimately, the program trains students to do research and use research to expand understanding and advance dialogue about the role of religion in public life.