This is a discussion post, about 250 words, tittle page not require In- text citation is required original work please, reference source. QUESTION The ethos of scientism and postmodernism has exacerbated the perceived philosophical and cultural tension between science and religion. What is your perception of this tension? Use the lecture and the topic readings to support your response.(Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 from

the book “Science and Religion: A Historical Introduction” by Gary B. Ferngren, as well as the article “The New Atheism and Science: A Historical and Theological Perspective” by Kurt P. Wise).

My perception of the tension between science and religion is that it is multifaceted and rooted in different philosophical and cultural perspectives. The ethos of scientism and postmodernism has indeed exacerbated this tension, as both approaches have distinct views on the nature of knowledge and the role of science in society.

Scientism, as described by Ferngren, is the belief that only scientific knowledge is valid and that science is the only reliable way to understand and explain the world. This view often dismisses religious beliefs as unverifiable and subjective, leading to a perceived conflict between the two. Scientists who adhere to scientism may argue that religious claims lack empirical evidence and should not be considered valid in the pursuit of knowledge.

Postmodernism, on the other hand, challenges the idea that objective truth exists and that science is the ultimate authority. Postmodernists argue that knowledge is socially constructed and influenced by power structures, including those within science. This perspective can lead to a skepticism of scientific claims and a questioning of the objective nature of scientific knowledge. This skepticism may clash with religious beliefs that emphasize the existence of absolute truths and moral values.

The tension between science and religion also arises from their different domains of inquiry. Science seeks to understand the natural world through empirical observations and experiments, while religion often deals with questions of meaning, purpose, and morality that are beyond the scope of scientific investigation. This distinction, however, does not necessarily imply a conflict between the two; many religious individuals see science as a valuable tool for understanding the natural world while maintaining their faith in a higher power.

Furthermore, historical conflicts between science and religion, such as the Galileo affair, have contributed to the perceived tension between the two. These conflicts have often been portrayed as clashes between reason and faith, with science being seen as challenging established religious beliefs. While these conflicts may have played a role in shaping the perception of the science-religion relationship, it is important to recognize that they do not represent the entirety of their interaction throughout history.

In conclusion, the tension between science and religion is a complex issue influenced by various philosophical and cultural factors. The ethos of scientism and postmodernism has exacerbated this tension by presenting contrasting views on the nature of knowledge and the role of science. However, it is crucial to approach this issue with nuance and recognize that science and religion can coexist and complement each other in different ways. Acknowledging the distinct domains of inquiry and understanding the historical context can help foster a more constructive dialogue between the two.