This blog post examines the historical relationship between science and religion. We will explore not only their opposition but also the possibility of mutual complementarity and coexistence.
Introduction
If you ask people what relationship science and religion have, opinions will vary, but the most dominant perception is that they exist in opposition to each other. Since ancient Greek philosophers sought to explain natural phenomena, humans have strived to understand the world through belief in supernatural forces or gods. This dichotomous approach became even more pronounced over time during the Middle Ages. Christians of that era believed all truth could be found within the Bible and church tradition. The church positioned itself at the center of learning, acting as both a repository of knowledge and an arbiter.
Early medieval Christianity, allied with secular power, suppressed scientific endeavors that contradicted church doctrine. The Middle Ages, often remembered as an era of scientific suppression, is sometimes assessed as having hindered Europe’s intellectual development. However, the conflict between religion and science is more complex than commonly perceived. Historically, many universities were established during the Middle Ages, where natural philosophy and science were studied. Therefore, we must remember that the common notion that ‘science and religion are in conflict’ is overly simplistic.
Main Argument
When discussing the conflict between science and religion, many believe religion is based on absolute faith in God, while science relies on rational thought and provable facts. This tendency is often cited as the reason science and religion become antagonistic. Historical instances of the Church suppressing science reinforce this belief. For example, in 1210, Aristotle’s lectures on natural philosophy were banned in Paris, and scholars who violated this ban were tortured. Furthermore, the Church accepted the geocentric model rather than the heliocentric model, and scholars who denied it were brought before the Inquisition. Galileo Galilei is a prime example of someone brought before the Inquisition for advocating the heliocentric model.
Even today, the debate between creationism and evolution remains a prime example of conflict between religion and science. Some religious groups rejecting evolution have opposed its teaching in schools and even argued for its removal from textbooks. Conversely, the scientific community widely accepts evolution as a biological fact and emphasizes the need for education reflecting modern science. Thus, religion and science maintain differing positions, sometimes leading to sharp confrontation.
However, a recent development has offered a potential solution to this conflict. In 2014, Pope Francis stated that creationism and evolution are not contradictory, suggesting evolution could be part of God’s plan. This is considered a significant instance demonstrating the Catholic Church’s recognition of science and the possibility of reconciliation between religion and science. The Pope declared that the Big Bang theory and evolution do not conflict with Catholic doctrine, suggesting that science and religion can jointly explore the mysteries of the universe and the origins of life.
Examining the fundamental differences between religion and science reveals that the two systems answer different questions. Science focuses on explaining natural phenomena and the physical world. It discovers laws through empirical data and experiments to answer questions like why the sky is blue or why seasons change. Religion, on the other hand, answers questions about human life and values. It provides answers to fundamental questions such as why humans exist and how we should live.
Despite these differences between science and religion, the two can form a complementary relationship. While science excels at explaining the physical world, religion enriches human life on moral and philosophical dimensions. Indeed, many scientists pursue their work while holding religious beliefs, and religious individuals also seek to broaden their understanding of the world through science. Through these complementary roles, science and religion demonstrate the possibility of coexistence rather than conflict.
Conclusion
Entering the 21st century, the relationship between science and religion has entered a new phase. New technologies, such as artificial intelligence, are particularly raising philosophical and religious questions about human existence and the purpose of life anew. Religion continues to provide moral standards, while science improves human life through its explanations of the physical world. Within this trend, science and religion are moving towards emphasizing mutual complementarity rather than conflict.
When religion and science respect each other’s domains, recognize their respective limitations, and collaborate, we can lead richer lives. Religion can provide answers about the meaning and value of life that science cannot address, while science offers an understanding of the physical world that religion cannot explain. Thus, science and religion can coexist in a complementary relationship, each fulfilling distinct roles.
The reconciliation of religion and science is emerging not merely as a theoretical issue but as a practical social necessity. This reconciliation can be realized through a process where the two systems complement each other and develop together. To build a society where religion and science coexist and cooperate, we must continue this dialogue relentlessly.
