Belief and the Human Mind

The author addresses the role of the mind in establishing a belief in God and some of the related impediments. Belief is defined, and paths to establish a belief are discussed. Though the book discusses these topics from an Islamic perspective, the author believes many of the insights apply to other religions as well. One major relevant factor is doubt. Doubt can be a major impediment, but also a component of belief. The relationship between religion (Islam) and science is examined. Religion and science are different paths to attain knowledge and have different scopes, and if the religion is true and science is correct, they should lead to the same conclusions. Conflict occurs when one or both are uncertain; in which case the uncertain one should be interpreted in lights of the other that is certain. The author believes that the relationship between religion and science is not that of a conflict, but more of reciprocity, with correct knowledge and good science leading to God and religion, and science needing the guidance of religion.