The concept of scientific discovery is often juxtaposed with religious dogmas; however, on closer inspection, one will realize that the two notions are often intertwined. In the first chapter of their book, “The Soul of Science,” Pearcey and Thaxton argue that Christian faith has inspired multiple scientific discoveries and revelations, therefore, leading to the development of new ideas (4). While the process started with Aristotle’s groundbreaking ideas, Christian philosophers and scientists would explore these ideas, later on, and contribute to the evolution of the understanding of the world by adding their perspectives. Namely, in the Middle Ages, the perception of science was slightly skewed due to the focus on the pursuit of the glory of God (38). Nonetheless, the evolution of scientific analysis continued, leading to the emergence of new concepts.
Since initially, the scientific inquiry received a powerful impetus from Christianity in its exploration of the nature of the world, it would be reasonable to believe that, with its strong presence in present-day society, Christian values will continue to drive scientific development forward. Though one could claim that the Christian faith no longer has a lasting and overwhelming power over people, its values remain the foundation for present-day ethics and principles of conduct. Therefore, while some of the aspects of the Christian faith may have an r4educed impact on people’s decision-making, Christian values remain engrained into the scientific community. Affecting a range of choices, from the ethics of beneficence and non-maleficence to the use of mathematical analysis as a set of foundational principles that lay at the core of the Creation process, the Christian faith has and always will advance science to a significant extent (Pearcey and Thaxton 27). Therefore, one may presume that science and Christianity will remain closely intertwined.
Work Cited
Pearcey, Nancy R., and B. Charles Thaxton. The soul of science. Wheathon: Crossway Books, 1994.