Aside from the story Gould relays in his paper on "Nonoverlapping Magisteria," Neuman recounts Pope Francis' agreement that "evolution and the Big Bang are consistent with the notion of a creator." So, is there really some sort of "battle" between science and religion, qua religion? Or is the struggle more about interpretation than reality?
Please keep in mind that there are more religions than the "monotheistic three." Hindu Cosmology may be the closest it comes to cosmology and timescales. There are other holy texts besides the Bible like the Qur'an, Upanishads, The Tripitaka, and the Urantia Book (Look it up), and many others.
So, locate a brief article or video discussing a religious or spiritual belief, or an anti-religious or anti-theistic stance, and briefly present the position supported by the author or presenter. This can involve topics like reincarnation, spiritual awakening, or anything generally dismissed by a naturalistic view of reality. Alternatively, you could find material that endorses "Science Rules." Once more, you do not need to personally endorse the position; this is an exercise in thinking and something you should try to do in less than 350 words.
After presenting the "argument," provide a concise analysis of the argument (good, bad, makes sense, has holes, etc.).
Finally, provide a brief statement on the consequences to the nature of reality IF the position is true.
Examples: "If reincarnation is true, then there are aspects of reality science cannot explain, and this is good (or bad) because.... "If Stephen Woodford (Rationality Rules) is right and there is no free will, then ... " "If ancient aliens built the pyramids, then none of the major religions can be right about the nature of humans or reality because..."
Try to have some fun with this one, and for an added challenge, take on a position you personally disagree with. Be sure to document all resources properly.
Neuman, Scott. “Pope says God not a magician, with a magic wand.” NPR – International 28 October 2014. https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2014/10/28/359564982/pope-says-god-not-a-magician-with-a-magic-wand
Submission Instructions:
- Length: Keep your paper under 350 words..
- Citation: Document all sources properly in a legitimate style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
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