Eureka Moments in Science and Religion: Stroke of Genius and Leap of Faith (ePub)

This book examines the history of science and religion in human civilization and discusses how they are closely intertwined.

It is noteworthy that throughout human history, science and religion have developed in tandem. In reviewing the history of this development, one could easily discern ten major eureka moments in science and religion. These are related to the shape of our planet Earth and its place in the universe, the biological evolution, nuclear energy, DNA, the diversity, codes and development of religions, the unforgiving physical world, and the imperfections of humans. These ten eureka events that have changed the course of human history and human evolution are carefully examined in detail in this book. They are without doubt stroke of genius and leap of faith of humankind.

While some people have naively thought of science and religion as mutually exclusive, the fact is that they are really the two sides of the same proverbial coin. Humans need science to understand how the world works and to live better lives, but humans also need a moral compass to live a meaningful life. This moral compass is needed for the management of personal emotions and desires and to navigate the complex relationships between individuals and groups. Religion often serves as the ideal conduit for precisely that. No matter how advanced is our science and technology, we will still need to manage them effectively and appropriately so that they will be beneficial to human development instead of endangering human existence.

The book also examines other very important issues such as the genesis of religion, the relation between scientists and religion, as well as the topic of religion and politics. Finally, it ponders how the future will unfold for religion and science in charting a secure course for humankind on Earth and among the stars.