Science and Religion
The relationship between science and religion has long been viewed as contentious, with many perceiving them as opposing forces. The Scientific Revolution, initiated by figures like Nicholaus Copernicus, introduced ideas such as heliocentrism, which directly contradicted established religious teachings of the time. Despite historical conflicts, such as Galileo's house arrest for his scientific views, many modern scientists identify as religious, indicating a more complex relationship than outright opposition. Studies show that a significant portion of the population does not perceive a conflict between science and their faith, suggesting coexistence is possible. However, beliefs about this relationship can vary widely based on political, cultural, and generational factors. Additionally, religious fundamentalism can contribute to resistance against scientific concepts like evolution and genetic modification. Nevertheless, many religious institutions are increasingly integrating scientific education into their programs, pointing to a potential for balance and collaboration. Overall, the dialogue between science and religion continues to evolve, reflecting a diversity of perspectives and experiences.
Science and Religion
To many, science and religion are perceived as polar opposites. Science was a product of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Nicholaus Copernicus’s solar system work using detailed mathematics was the beginning of the Scientific Revolution. Up to that time, the study of astronomy and astrology supported the church’s position on planetary motion and influence. Copernicus had a theory (heliocentrism) that the Earth and other planets revolved around the Sun, which was inconsistent with the theory of his time. Theologians generally opposed the manuscript of his work as contradicting the scriptures. Using the scientific method rather than proposing explanations based on theological assumptions has often placed scientists and their work in opposition to some religious worldviews. In practice, however, science and religion coexist, with mutually beneficial contributions by practitioners in both arenas.
Background
Copernicus studied to be a theologian, earning his doctorate in church law. The study of astronomy and astrology were entirely compatible with medieval church practice (Catholic as well as Protestant). The controversy, then and in the twenty-first century, arises from a fundamental difference in worldview between those who believe religious texts (particularly the Christian scriptures), as interpreted, contain an accurate and historical account of cosmic and human origins and those who give credence to scientific propositions, such as evolution and the Big Bang.
The absence of accurate historical knowledge regarding church teachings and actual church-science debate contributes greatly to popular misunderstanding. Myths that continue to persist include the Catholic Church banning the number zero while upholding a flat-Earth doctrine. Medical discoveries in the field of human dissection were debated in 1540 in the church of Saint Francesco in Bologna, not between the anatomist Vesalius and a theologian but between Vesalius and a defender of Galen, a second century CE Greek physician. Galileo, who like Copernicus and a number of his own contemporaries, believed that the Earth revolves around the sun, was put under house arrest for his teachings, but some historians suggest that the pope may have taken umbrage at Galileo’s strategic inclusion of a passage that appeared to be not only doctrinally undermining but also personally offensive. Galileo’s punishment was not extended to many, including many in the clergy, who held similar views.
Rice University, in December 2015, published a study of ten thousand individuals that challenges some common perceptions regarding scientists and their view of religion. "More than half of scientists in India, Italy, Taiwan and Turkey self-identify as religious," said Elaine Howard Eklund, founding director of the school’s Religion and Public Life Program. She noted that 55 percent of the general population in Hong Kong declare themselves atheist, compared with only 26 percent of scientists from that same region.
The Rice study also found that 20 percent of the general population thinks most religious people are hostile to science; that 22 percent of the general population thinks scientists are hostile to religion; and that 5.27 percent of Americans feel that science and religion are in conflict. Of those who feel science and religion are in conflict, 52 percent sided with religion.
Impact
The Pew Research Center report on Science and Religion (October 21, 2015) made some significant observations in Americans’ perceptions. Not quite one-third of those surveyed felt their religion was in conflict with science. More than two-thirds saw no conflict between their religion and science. Of particular note was their finding that 73 percent of those Americans surveyed who were identified as not religious (based on church attendance) see a greater rate of conflict between religion and science, while those who attended church weekly were more inclined (50 percent) to believe there is no conflict.
Pew researchers point out that many perceptions are not the result of religious affiliation or attendance. It is more often a matter of public opinion, political views, and/or ideology. Considerations need to be made for divides between generations, gender, education, science knowledge, social strata, ethnicity, culture, and even race. However, religious affiliation and activity is not necessarily a major influence on these views. Rather, perceptions of conflicts between science and religion appear to be limited to a defined number of areas, most notably, evolution. The controversy, furthermore, is largely a byproduct of people’s religious beliefs. Religious affiliation and attendance do play a larger role in taking a stance regarding not only evolution, but also medical advances, specifically, in genetic modification.
Statistics indicate waning religious affiliation but they also show a decidedly increased rise in religious fundamentalism. Fundamentalism is a religious principle that holds holy writ as literal. Scriptural texts as explanatory treatises are sometimes contradicted by science-based teachings, which are therefore rejected out of hand by religious adherents. Fundamentalism in religion worldwide has combined with political and insurrectionist forces to oppose changes in society driven by attitudes and values founded on more science-based worldviews. Scientific fields continue to expand, however, and many schools and colleges affiliated with the various religions have also expanded their science programs. It would appear balance and coexistence may be on the rise as well.
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