Essays

Before the advent of science, religion played a dominant role in molding a man's mind. The process of agriculture, the food we eat, the clothes we wear, our social relations, were all at one time, under the domain of religion. Gradually, they have passed out of its control and become subjects for scientific study.

As science advanced, it started contradicting most of the beliefs, which were based on the Bible. Thus, the Victorian Age was a period of controversy, when there started a long conflict between, religion and science — a conflict that has not been resolved, till date.

Religion, no doubt, has greatly helped in the development of humanity. It has laid down values and standards and has pointed out principles for the guidance of human life. But, it all the good it has done, it has also tried to imprison truth in set forms and encouraged ceremonies and practices, which soon lose their original meaning and become mere routine.

Science, on the other hand, has made the world jump forward with a leap, built up a glittering civilization, opened up innumerable avenues for the growth of knowledge and added to the power of man to such an extent, that for the first time, it has become possible to conceive that man can triumph over and shape his physical environments.

The method of science is entirely different from that of religion. The scientific method is that of objective enquiry, search for truth and knowledge, the refusal to accept anything without testing and trial and the capacity to change previous conclusions in the face of new evidence.

Quite contrary to common belief, science and religion are not opposed to each other. They are one and the same. Both are based on the pursuit of truth. Science presents truth about the universe before us. Religion reveals truth about human life and spirit to us. Science works in the visible world, while religion works in the invisible world.s

Science has its impact on every field of life. It has provided man with many facilities and conveniences. It has rendered its services in the field of technology, atomic energy, war armaments, medicine, trade and agriculture. If man does not use these, then all these blessings of science are useless. It is true that science is a good servant, but a bad master.

We can conclude that science and religion are not foes but friends of each other. There is perfect harmony between them. Science is not a war with the values and ideals taught by religion. Science brings worldly treasures, while religion- gives us spiritual pleasures.

Science brings prosperity, while religion peace. Both of them are complementary to each other. Science is enlightened. Religion that should have been a source of light has unfortunately fallen into an abyss of darkness. Let it be enlightened too and let the two flourish together.