Many believe that science and religion are contradictory in nature; that with the prevalence of science, religion might slowly lose its place in our society. However, this general belief that science and religion have nothing in common and is mutually exclusive might not necessarily be correct.
In ancient times, when human knowledge was limited, religion also helped people understand the world. The image of gods were created to explain for the forces of nature. For example, natural disasters were accounted for as "god's wrath". Later, scientific discoveries started to be made. However, these discoveries were not taken kindly by many. People were not ready to accept new facts in place of what they were used to. These discoveries were thought to be offensive towards religious sentiments. For example, many Christians could not accept Copernicus and Galileo's theories about the universe because they went against Christian beliefs. Early scientists faced difficult lives because there are little who believed their theories and churches treated scientists harshly. Many theories proposed in the early age of science that opposed religious beliefs cause their respective scientists to be "punished" by the religious institutions of the time.
However, nowadays, religion is no longer used to explain the way the world works. Modern believers understand and accept science while maintaining their religious beliefs. Science and religion have passed the conflicting stage and have now become 2 totally different realms. Science deals with facts while religion deals with beliefs.
Science is tangible. It concerns the physical world. The results from scientific findings are made through experiments and observed from hard facts. Through empirical evidence, we learn of undeniable scientific facts. Science explains how the world works and why the world works in a certain manner. For example, why there is day and night, why volcanic eruptions and earthquakes happen, why plants need light to survive.
On the other hand, religion is a matter of faith. It teaches one what to think, how to live life and become a better person. While any scientific theory is proven without doubt, there is no tangible evidence associated with religious beliefs. Religion aims to leads us onto "the right path". Each religion advocates its own beliefs and teachings. For example, Taoism believes in letting nature do its work. There is no right or wrong when it comes to religion. Religion simply exists to guide our spiritual self.
Science might still discover truths that might offend religious beliefs at times, but these beliefs can be amended. Science cannot destroy religion just as religion cannot obstruct science. Knowing that the Earth is not in the center of the solar system does not affect our beliefs that there might be "a higher being" overseeing everything. We still believe that our efforts will be recognized and those who do good will be repaid. We still belief that there will be retribution for people who have done bad things.
Furthermore, science and religion are actually complementary in the bigger picture. True religion teaches men to cherish life values so that they can live a better, happier and more fulfilling life. It takes care of the our spiritual selves. Science teaches us how to improve our own lives. Modern technology invented through scientific knowledge has given us better facilities and greater convenience. Science takes care of our material well-being. Therefore, science and religion are complementary in this sense. Both can help us live better lives.
In conclusion, I believe that even in this modern world of ours, where science is rapidly progressing, there is still a place left for religion. We need both science and religion. Neither can completely replace the other. Thus, I believe that science and religion can co-exist.
No comments:
Post a Comment