Q&A: Between Science and Religion
Between Science and Religion.
Question
Hello Rabbi,
Usually I’m in favor of separating religion from science, so that they don’t affect one another, but on the other hand, as a religious person I can’t help but support research that fits the religious worldview more. Am I doing the right thing? What does the Rabbi think about this issue?
Answer
It’s impossible to draw a clear line. Every person has starting assumptions, and it’s impossible to interpret and build theories without them. Therefore, there is no problem with taking religious beliefs into account when you are examining two scientific possibilities, and your faith can be a factor in deciding between them—just as everyone uses their own beliefs in such situations. Still, intellectual honesty is required: one should not adopt interpretations or theories that are clearly unreasonable merely on the strength of faith.
See my comment here about judging favorably: