Science as a Religion
When we discuss science as a religion, we need to look at the role religion plays.
We use religion for many things, but mainly we use it to try and explain our existence and the world around us. Science is purported to have its roots in religion. Science and Scientific Methodology were developed as a means to verify the teachings found in religion.
However, as Science unlocked the mysteries of the Universe, it was found that what religion taught as fact was not in actuality correct. Religions were affronted by this, and Science and the organized religions that helped develop it were now at odds.
When I talk about Science as a religion, I am not referring to the process. I am speaking to the discoveries, those things that are found to be true. Science as Science Fact. The process is just a means of getting to that fact.
We also need to be skeptical. Much of what is touted as science is often pseudo science. Often parts of the scientific process are used to validate views or opinions, and the claim is that it is supported by science. It is not true science until we have completed the process. This means peer reviews, double blind studies, and a process that can withstand scrutiny and can be replicated.
Science
There are differences between Science as a religion and organized religions.
With Science we believe Gods word is woven into the fabric of the Universe, and it is our purpose to discover it.
Science asks God how the process was accomplished, how the universe works; and as scientists we must accept the results.
In Science, we make no assumptions about God. God could be nothing more than random chance. There is no proof that God is a being. God is simply what is responsible for our existence. Until proven otherwise, God is the Universe.
Since God is what is responsible for our creation, it cannot be something that was a result of the process. We cannot attribute God like properties, or special countenance to any being that was a result of this creation.
Gods laws are the physical laws of the universe. As the foundation of this universe, Gods laws cannot be broken.
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Organized Religions
Differences between Science as a religion and many organized religions.
Organized religions often have a text written many years ago that they claim is the word or God.
Organized religions like to tell God how the universe was created, and disregard or attempt to explain away any conflicting discoveries. Some organizations even try to re-write or destroy historical artifacts in an attempt to validate their doctrine.
Organized religions often believe that God is a being that guides our path. They believe that God requires, or can answer our prayers.
Often, they believe that a man either is, or personifies God. Or that one of us has some special way of communicating with God (ei.e. a prophet.)
Organized religions often attribute rules that they feel make for a better society, to God. They claim that God has commanded them. However, we often find it necessary to break these “rules.” There are always times when an exception is prudent, and organized religions often allow them to be broken in order to further their cause. Breaking them outside the confines of the religion requires some type of penance.