Science and Religion
Science and religion have had their difference in ideas since the very beginning. Each of
them follows different ideas that contradict each other at current times. But is it possible for both
of them to coexist or are they destined to be rivals? But, before delving into the conflict, how do
these concepts impact our lives?
Religion and science-
Religion is a belief in a higher power, a divine power that is deduced to be the reason for our
lives. It is also an answer to what lies beyond a human's death. There are various religions with
different core beliefs and myths. These shape our culture, and traditions and are incorporated in
our daily activities.
Religion has been part of humankind from the very start, now it has evolved into various
sections. It has its highs and lows too. It is said that religion makes a person feel like having a
purpose, soothes us at hard times, gives us hope and also teaches us important morals. But, it
is also stated that the most imposed idea of deeds in life leading to your afterlife circumstances
creates anxiety in people. There has also been discrimination of gender in certain religions but it
is believed to have changed over time.
Meanwhile, science explores framing logical explanations for the things happening around us.
These explanations are proven in a systematic method. They began by ideating, experimenting
and eventually creating a theory deduced from the previous steps. They now create a
foundation in life, taught from an early age. Yet certain factors cannot be proven through science
as it has exceptions too. These unexplainable concepts still lay uncertain even after our
technological and industrial developments and advancements.
Science in Religion-
Circling back to our original topic, Are there any connections between these two concepts? Can
there be any?
In Hinduism, there are certain religious practices proven to have scientific reasoning. One such
example is traditional, the practice of tossing coins in the holy well. After research, it has been
proven that the old coins that were tossed were made of copper. The copper coins increased
the copper content consumed by humans. Science also states that copper content is vital for
humans. The other idea of keeping natural Mehandi from a plant is known to cool down the
body.
If we believe religion and science are separate ideas then why do more than 48% of scientists
have a religious affiliation and more than 75% believe that religions convey important truths?
Most surprisingly the famous scientists we name now such as Einstien were religious.
There is also research conducted by Tony Jack, showing a correlation between religious
involvement and various positive outcomes, such as better mental health, increased social
support, and a sense of purpose as it is proven that the activity of the emotional region
increases. The equal spread between science using the logical thinking system of our brain and
religion and spiritual acts stimulates the emotive thinking system of our brain. With this balance
our mind is stable. Though other factors trigger the emotive parts research has shown a major
impact on religious beliefs itself.
Why is there a conflict?-
Though there is proof showing the relationship between science and religion these people
following either concept still seem to have their rivalry and debates. The core reason lies in the
point of view itself. Religion and science are two different windows and the biggest mistake we
make is to look into them through the same window. They have their differences in opinions,
impacts and core concepts and eventually, these overrule each other. If there is no way to prove
religion or worship science, then what forces us to interpret them into one view?
Science and religion complement each other. When science revolves around the mind, and
body, discovering and understanding, religion delves into the soul, emotions and supernatural.
One of the many quotes which describe this concept is by Albert Einstein. He stated that
‘science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind’. It is another eye-opener to the
cohesive relationship between science and religion.
This could be a different world, as people balance their morals as religion guides them and
search for the unknown to find the truth as science also seeks answers and truth. In some
religious practices, the real reason would be discovered through science creating a better
connection with religion. There would also be a belief that not all would be proven by science
but some exist beyond. There would also be an agreement between certain differences in
opinion and reduce the chance is discrimination regarding people’s religion. Maybe all that one
can’t comprehend would happen if the acceptance is made. Yet none will be known for sure, as
science can’t prove and all you can do is hope and believe.
Rithikaa
