As far as religion is concerned, it is a quality better attested to through action and personal concern. Among religious-minded people, there is room for discussion, sometimes vigorous discussion on particulars. But I don’t find that a central value to my expression of faith.

Science strikes me as both similar and dissimilar. The former, in that a scientist is “inculturated” into a society that involves a certain set of behaviors, customs, and accepted approaches. Both science and religion are based on a search for truth, but their tool kits for that endeavor are far different.

Many scientists operate in the rational, but they appreciate beauty, spirit, and things that can’t be quantified. Many religious operate in the spiritual, but they have more or less of an attraction to the analytical. All scientists and people of faith are human beings, so they all bring personal preferences, strengths and weaknesses to the expression of their respective cultures.

In a relentlessly adversarial setting, even subsets within scientists and believers are incompatible. It’s human nature, sadly. But for the open-minded, science and religion together may serve to enrich individuals who have a genuine desire for the truth.

Thanks, Rob, for the link, btw.