Religion and the scientific future;: Reflections on myth, science and theology, (The Deems lectures)

By Orville B. Jenkins VINE VOICEGilkey analyzes the language forms of science, current western theological models and the traditional theology of various faiths laying out the thought streams and modes of expression that indicate how modern science and religious thought have influenced each other.MythicalHe shows that the language and theories of science in his day (1960s) are mythological, just a different kind of myth than the traditional western religious language. He likewise points out the problems with "demythologization" of Christian theological language. He further demonstrates how modern theology reflects the thought of the times, just as medieval philosophical theology of Europe reflected the Aristotelian thought of that time.Importance of ReligionGilkey proposes ways in which religious thought and language are indeed still important for modern society, and suggests how its language or message can become relevant again to the current society. His analysis emphasizes the amorality of the "science of power."As examples he refers to genetic engineering and other "applied sciences" to control man and the environment, which can become a tyranny of the scientific elite, who "know better." He thoughtfully shows how contemporary analyses of various ages indicate little difference in the human proclivity to evil and selfishness in the misuse of power for personal or group dominance and gain.Moral VoiceThe author proposes that the moral voice of Christian theology is necessary to remind scientists of the finitude of our knowledge. He deals with the contradictory claims within science, the myth of a static, orderly deterministic universe - universal unchanging laws of physics - and free will of humanity to manage their development by their own will and knowledge. He points out how arrogant and dangerous the gnosis of science is, the belief that knowledge will lead to virtue.