Tolle Lege: An Augustinian Journal of Philosophy and Theology

The relationship between science and religion has generally been viewed as one of antagonism and hostility. One particular instance being cited to support this view is the controversy between evolution and creationism. Creationism asserts that faith should be considered more important than science, and based its beliefs on the bible. For the creationist, God is the creator of the earth and everything in it. For evolutionists, the earth is far older than the biblical account, animals and plants are the result of a process called evolution. Two historical events demonstrate that the relationship between religion and science is far from being harmonious. The first is the outcome of the scientific revolution that led to the exaltation of science and its methods. The second is the rejection of metaphysical and religious propositions by the science-oriented logical positivists. The consequence of these events is that science has become highly esteemed and scientific knowledge is being seen as the only reliable form of knowledge. On the contrary, religious authority and knowledge are being doubted and questioned.To address the conflict, I have introduced igwebuike philosophy of solidarity and complimentarity. I have shown how this philosophical perspective is vital in the con?ict between religion and science because it promotes the spirit of mutual interdependence and respect for the view of the other. The perspective of igwebuike philosophy applied here can be instrumental in finding a permanent solution to the disagreement between religion and science. I have employed the following methods of inquiring in the course of this work: historical, evaluative and analytic.

Open Full Text (PDF)