Conflict Thesis

Definition

The conflict thesis is the idea that there is an inherent conflict between religion and science, suggesting that the two are in opposition to each other in terms of beliefs and worldviews. This concept implies that advances in scientific knowledge often challenge religious doctrines, leading to tension and debates over authority and truth claims.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The conflict thesis gained popularity in the 19th century, largely influenced by historians such as John William Draper and Andrew Dickson White, who argued that religion obstructed scientific progress.
2. One major example often cited in support of the conflict thesis is the trial of Galileo Galilei, where his heliocentric views were condemned by the Catholic Church.
3. Critics of the conflict thesis argue that it oversimplifies the relationship between science and religion, pointing out instances where they have coexisted or influenced each other positively.
4. The conflict thesis has been challenged by the idea of complementary magisteria, which suggests that science addresses how things work while religion deals with questions of meaning and purpose.
5. Contemporary discussions often focus on specific issues like evolution versus creationism, illustrating how the conflict thesis continues to shape debates in modern society.

Review Questions

• How does the conflict thesis illustrate the relationship between science and religion?
  • The conflict thesis illustrates the relationship between science and religion as one characterized by tension and opposition. It posits that advances in scientific understanding often challenge religious beliefs, leading to conflicts over what constitutes truth. This perspective is evident in historical cases such as the trial of Galileo, where scientific findings were met with resistance from religious authorities, highlighting a pattern of discord between these two domains.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the conflict thesis in light of historical events related to science and religion.
  • The strengths of the conflict thesis lie in its ability to explain notable historical conflicts, such as the Galileo affair and debates over Darwinian evolution. However, its weaknesses include an oversimplification of complex interactions between science and religion. Many historical instances show collaboration or mutual influence rather than outright conflict, suggesting that this thesis does not fully capture the nuances of their relationship throughout history.
• Critically analyze how the ongoing debate over issues like climate change reflects elements of the conflict thesis in contemporary society.
  • The debate over climate change exemplifies elements of the conflict thesis by showcasing how scientific consensus can clash with certain religious beliefs. Some religious groups resist accepting scientific findings due to theological views on creation or divine intervention. This ongoing tension illustrates how the conflict thesis remains relevant today, as discussions about environmental stewardship can lead to opposing positions among different faiths and scientific communities, revealing deep-seated ideological divides.

Related terms

Scientific Realism: A philosophical perspective that views scientific theories as true descriptions of the world, emphasizing that science aims to provide an accurate representation of reality.

Non-Overlapping Magisteria (NOMA): A concept proposed by Stephen Jay Gould stating that science and religion represent different areas of inquiry and authority, and thus do not overlap in their domains of expertise.

Theism: The belief in the existence of a god or gods, especially a creator who intervenes in the universe, which may come into conflict with scientific explanations of phenomena.