This article examines the myth that science and religion are in opposition and explores the possibility that the two systems can coexist in a complementary relationship, using historical examples and contemporary perspectives. It concludes that reconciliation between science and religion is possible, and emphasizes its importance.

Introduction

If you ask people how science and religion relate to each other, they will have different opinions, but the dominant myth is that they are in opposition to each other. Ever since ancient Greek philosophers sought to explain natural phenomena, humans have sought to understand the world through belief in supernatural forces or gods. Over time, this dichotomous approach became more pronounced in the Middle Ages. Christians of the time believed that all truth could be found in the Bible and church tradition, and the church was at the center of scholarship, acting as a repository and arbiter of knowledge.
In the early Middle Ages, Christianity combined with secular power to suppress scientific endeavors that contradicted church doctrine. The Middle Ages are often remembered as a time when science was suppressed, and Europe’s intellectual progress was hindered. However, the conflict between religion and science is more complex than that. Historically, many universities were founded in the Middle Ages, where natural philosophy and science were studied. Therefore, it’s important to remember that the myth that science and religion are in conflict is an oversimplification.

The bottom line

When many people talk about the conflict between science and religion, they assume that religion is based on an absolute belief in God, while science is based on rational thinking and provable facts. This is often said to be the reason why science and religion are at odds with each other. Historical examples of the church’s suppression of science also reinforce this belief. For example, in 1210, Aristotle’s lectures on natural philosophy were banned in Paris, and scholars who violated the ban were tortured. The church also accepted the theory of heliocentrism, rather than geocentrism, and scholars who denied it were referred to the Inquisition. Galileo Galilei was the most prominent example of this, as he was prosecuted for his belief in geocentrism.
Today, the creationism vs. evolution debate remains a classic example of the conflict between religion and science. Some religious organizations that reject evolutionary theory have opposed its teaching in schools and have even called for it to be removed from textbooks. On the other hand, the scientific community has widely accepted evolution as a biological fact and emphasizes the need for education to reflect modern science. Religion and science are on opposite sides of the debate, and at times, they have been at odds with each other.
Recently, however, there have been hints of a possible resolution to this conflict. In 2014, Pope Francis stated that creationism and evolution do not contradict each other, and that evolution may be part of God’s plan. This is considered an important example of Catholic recognition of science and the potential for reconciliation between religion and science. By declaring that the Big Bang theory and evolutionary theory do not conflict with Catholic doctrine, Pope Francis suggested that science and religion can work together to explore the mysteries of the universe and the origins of life.
When we look at the essential differences between religion and science, we see that the two systems answer different questions. Science focuses on explaining natural phenomena and the physical world, using empirical data and experiments to discover laws to answer questions like why the sky is blue and why the seasons change. Religion, on the other hand, answers questions about human life and values. It provides answers to essential questions such as why we exist and how we should live.
Despite these differences between science and religion, they can form a complementary relationship. While science’s strength lies in explaining the physical world, religion enriches human life on a moral and philosophical level. In fact, many scientists come to science with religious beliefs, and religious people also use science to expand their understanding of the world. These complementary roles show that science and religion have the potential to coexist, rather than be opposed.

Conclusion

In the 21st century, the relationship between science and religion has entered a new phase, as new technologies, especially artificial intelligence, are reopening philosophical and religious questions about human existence and the purpose of life. Religion still provides a moral compass, while science seeks to improve human life through explanations of the physical world. In this context, science and religion are moving toward emphasizing complementarities rather than conflicts.
When religion and science respect each other’s territory, recognize their limitations, and work together, we can live richer lives. Religion can answer questions about the meaning and value of life that science cannot, and science can provide an understanding of the physical world that religion cannot. In this way, science and religion have different roles and can coexist in a complementary relationship.
The reconciliation of religion and science is not just a theoretical issue, but a practical social necessity. This reconciliation can only be realized if the two systems complement each other and develop together. In the future, we must continue to engage in dialog to build a society where religion and science coexist and cooperate.