Deprovincializing Science and Religion

The study of science and religion requires clarification of which science and religion are being compared, as well as what aspects of each are being examined. This Element sets the study of science and religion in a global context by examining two ways in which humans have understood the natural world: observable regularities and the work of gods, spirits, and ancestors. It distinguishes three varieties of science and examines their relation to three kinds of religion along four dimensions: beliefs, goals, organizations, and conceptions of knowledge. It also outlines the emergence of a clear distinction between science and religion and an increase in the autonomy of scientific inquiry, which has made conflicts between science and religion possible.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The relationship between science and religion is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration and analysis. It is a fool's errand to attempt to understand this relationship without clarifying which science we are discussing, whose religion we are speaking about, and what aspects of each we are comparing. This Element sets the study of science and religion in a global context by examining two ways in which humans have understood the natural world.

The first way is by reference to observable regularities in the behavior of things. This approach has been dominant in Western science since the Enlightenment and is based on the belief that the natural world can be studied through observation and experimentation. The second way is by reference to the work of gods, spirits, and ancestors. This approach has been prevalent in many cultures throughout history and is based on the belief that the natural world is governed by supernatural forces and that humans can interact with these forces through rituals, prayers, and other practices.

Under these headings, this Element distinguishes three varieties of science and examines their relation to three kinds of religion along four dimensions: beliefs, goals, organizations, and conceptions of knowledge. It also outlines the emergence of a clear distinction between science and religion and an increase in the autonomy of scientific inquiry. It is these developments that have made conflicts between science and religion possible.

One of the key distinctions between science and religion is their respective approaches to understanding the natural world. Science is based on the belief that the natural world can be studied through observation and experimentation and that natural laws can be discovered through empirical evidence. Religion, on the other hand, is based on the belief that the natural world is governed by supernatural forces and that humans can interact with these forces through rituals, prayers, and other practices.

Another distinction between science and religion is their respective goals. Science is primarily concerned with understanding the natural world and developing new technologies and innovations that can improve human life. Religion, on the other hand, is primarily concerned with promoting spiritual growth, moral values, and social harmony.

Finally, science and religion differ in their respective organizational structures. Science is typically organized into academic institutions, research centers, and scientific societies that are responsible for conducting research, publishing scientific findings, and promoting scientific education. Religion, on the other hand, is typically organized into religious institutions, such as churches, mosques, and temples, that are responsible for promoting religious beliefs, practices, and values.

Despite these differences, there are also areas of overlap between science and religion. For example, both science and religion have been involved in the study of the human body and the origins of life. Both science and religion have also been involved in the search for meaning and purpose in life.

In conclusion, the relationship between science and religion is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration and analysis. It is important to clarify which science we are discussing, whose religion we are speaking about, and what aspects of each we are comparing in order to understand this relationship fully. By examining two ways in which humans have understood the natural world, this Element sets the study of science and religion in a global context and distinguishes three varieties of science and examines their relation to three kinds of religion along four dimensions: beliefs, goals, organizations, and conceptions of knowledge. It also outlines the emergence of a clear distinction between science and religion and an increase in the autonomy of scientific inquiry, which have made conflicts between science and religion possible.

Weight: 128g
Dimension: 215 x 232 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108711784