*The scientist and the theologian approach the deep questions of existence
from utterly different starting points. Science is based on careful observation
and experiment enabling theories to be constructed which connect different
experiences. Regularities in the workings of nature are sought which hopefully
reveal the fundamental laws that govern the behavior of matter and forces.
central to this approach is the willingness of the scientist to abandon
a theory if evidence is produced against it. Although individual scientists
may cling to some cherished idea, the scientific community as a group is
always ready to adopt a new approach. There are no shooting wars over scientific
principles.
*In contrast, religion is founded on revelation and received wisdom. Religious dogma that claims to contain an unalterable Truth can hardly be modified to fit changing ideas. The true believer must stand by his faith whatever the apparent evidence against it. This 'Truth' is said to be communicated directly to the believer, rather than through the filtering and refining process of collective investigation. The trouble about revealed 'Truth' is that it is liable to be wrong, and even if it is right other people require a good reason to share the recipient's belief. |