An alliance between science and religion is good for both religion and science as well as for quality education, preservation of the earth, personal health, global health, and so much more. Indeed, any schism between science and religion has been the product of misunderstanding and/or contrived competition.
The proper relationship between science and religion is one of mutual respect, support, and cooperation. Science can be the source of discoveries that answer many of the prayers voiced by religious adherents through the years. However, both science and religion are hurt when they are confused with each other or when one interferes with the other. Though religion has nothing to fear from science, religious beliefs are often used to construct roadblocks to scientific advancement—an irresponsible act on the part of religion, a disservice to science and all who can benefit from it. Similarly, science has no need to disparage or seek to destroy religion.
The Interfaith Alliance Foundation, of which I serve as president, in cooperation with Americans United for Separation of Church and State, is currently sponsoring an initiative called First Freedom First—an initiative designed to raise public awareness about the connection between protecting religious liberty—our first freedom—and assuring a proper relationship between religion and a myriad of values, including sound science.
As a matter of public policy, science and research should not be influenced by any set of religious beliefs. Please know that I write these words as a person profoundly appreciative of faith. More than a century of scientific research confirming that life on earth has evolved over billions of years in no way diminishes my beliefs about God, creation, and humankind. Affirming God as creator does not require discounting evolution.
Public schools play a critical role in encouraging good science without debunking religion. Houses of worship can affirm religious beliefs without speaking negatively of science.
Recently, when Judge John E. Jones ruled in the Dover, Pennsylvania case that “Intelligent Design”—creationism in sheep’s clothing—must not be injected into public school science classrooms, it was an important victory for sound science, academic integrity, and religious freedom. As the judge confirmed, the Constitution prohibits public institutions from favoring one religion over others or religion in general over non-religious beliefs. Such an affirmation serves to enhance democracy and to protect religion, both goals of maintaining religious freedom.
As life on earth and the health of the planet hang in the balance, religious leaders and experts in science should join hands to do everything possible to halt destruction and preserve creation. An alliance between sound science and religion is a desirable goal, but mutual respect between the two that allows each to make its important contributions to society is a necessity.
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