Feynman, Religion, and Skepticism
Nobel Winning Physicist Uses Science to Analayze Religion
Jun 14, 2009
Richard Feynman was a Nobel winning physicist who, among advancements in nuclear power and nanotechnology, examined the potential relationships of religion and science. Read "Skepticism Applied to Religion" to understand the basis of this concept.
Feynman gave a now famous speech on religion and science at a YMCA in 1956. In the speech he posits that there is a superficial improbability of a universe which holds all extant life as "a scaffolding for man's creation." But when one views the existing atomic evidence, it gives weight to the theory of one master plan. He also waxes on the unlikely idea that the entire universe is a theater for a 'god' to watch the struggles of man.
However, he also says that it is entirely possible to entertain parts of both religious and scientific philosophies, allowing followers of either doctrine to adopt certain portions as they deem them acceptable.
Addressing Rifts Between Science and Religion
Feynman also grapples with various dilemmas plaguing the scientist who attempts to foray into the world of religion. He coins the young scientist’s mindset with the phrase “attitude of uncertainty.” He likens this to the fact that as scientists become involved in their field, they become more accustomed to skepticism without absolute proof, and eventually begin to doubt everything that cannot be proven beyond a doubt. He writes on how scientists change their questioning from “Is there a God?” to “How sure is it that there is a God?”
Many Americans who consider themselves to be pious often have questions and doubts regarding their faith; sometimes these become so great that they destroy their own faith. If people used their doubts to search for answers and fill the gaps in their faith, rather than to blindly follow something that they do not fully understand, they might not only expand their knowledge of their religion, but could greatly improve their spirituality. While certain religious dogma might forbid this level of doubt, or some church officials may frown on it, one could surely see the benefits of such a practice.
In the 1956 essay, Feynman doesn’t seem to advocate an all-out atheism among scientists, but he does seem to be convinced that there is a large level of disbelief towards religion in the scientific community. He is very careful not to suggest any large reform, but is simply suggesting an advancement of thought on the parts of the two factions.
An Unlikely Marriage of Viewpoints
Feynman closes his speech with a reference to religion and science being two of the main driving forces behind the development of America as a nation, and seems to question why no one has attempted to relate them together more often. “How can we draw inspiration to support these two pillars of Western civilization so that they may stand together in full vigor, mutually unafraid?” he asks. It seems that Feynman has no concrete theory on how to achieve this union, just that he wishes for there to be some thought given to the issue. How often in history have two unlikely friends forged a bond that has changed the world? Science and religion most definitely have a great deal of insight to gain from each other; such a discourse, whether on an official level or internal, would no doubt serve to develop either institution or the individual who pursues it.
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